Electoral commission prolongs the Continuous Voter Registration exercise until July 24, 2026, and launches an online self-service registration platform for first-time voters
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks, giving eligible Nigerians more time to register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The commission also unveiled an online self-service voter registration platform that will enable eligible first-time voters to begin and complete the registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Friday by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
According to the commission, the decision followed a review of the ongoing registration exercise and consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
The nationwide CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to conclude on July 10, 2026. Under the new arrangement, the exercise will now end on Friday, July 24, 2026.
INEC said the extension is intended to ensure that more eligible Nigerians are captured in the National Register of Voters before preparations for the 2027 general elections enter their final stages.
“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the Register of Voters,” the commission said.
In addition to extending the registration period, INEC announced the introduction of an online self-service portal designed to simplify the voter registration process and improve accessibility.
According to the commission, eligible Nigerians will be able to initiate and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, without physically visiting an INEC office. A step-by-step guide will be provided on the platform to assist users throughout the process.
INEC said the digital platform has been equipped with robust safeguards to protect the integrity of the voter register.
According to the commission, the system incorporates “robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks designed to preserve the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.”
The electoral body urged all eligible Nigerians who have yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online option.
“The Commission remains committed to a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process, and to advancing the use of technology to improve citizens’ experience in the electoral process,” the statement added.
The Continuous Voter Registration exercise is regarded as one of INEC’s most significant preparatory activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Beyond registering first-time voters, the exercise also enables eligible citizens to update personal information, transfer registration between locations and replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards, helping to maintain an accurate and inclusive voter register.
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The latest extension reflects the commission’s ongoing efforts to expand voter participation while leveraging digital technology to make Nigeria’s electoral process more accessible and efficient.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
