A delegate is an individual elected or selected at the ward level to represent party members at higher-level party meetings, conventions, or primary elections. In Nigeria, delegates play a critical role in indirect primaries where they cast votes on behalf of their constituents. Delegates are distinct from aspirants (candidates seeking nomination) and ordinary party members. Under the Electoral Act 2022, delegate lists must be submitted to INEC before primary elections.

Nigerian political parties use two main delegate categories: (1) Statutory/Ex-Officio delegates — party officials who qualify by virtue of their position (ward chairman, secretary, treasurer); and (2) Elected delegates — party members chosen at ward congresses specifically to serve as delegates. Some parties also recognise special delegates such as elders or women/youth leaders. The ratio of statutory to elected delegates varies by party constitution. INEC requires that delegate elections follow democratic principles.

Section 82–87 of the Electoral Act 2022 governs party primaries. INEC's Guidelines for Political Party Primaries (2022) specify: delegate lists must include names, phone numbers, and BVN; delegates must be registered voters; parties must conduct ward congresses to elect delegates; and disputes must be resolved within 14 days. Failure to comply with delegate procedures can lead to nullification of primary results by the courts.