INEC Extends Voter Registration Exercise, Introduces Online Platform

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks to enable more eligible Nigerians to register ahead of future elections.

The commission announced that the exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025 and was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now end on Friday, July 24, 2026.

INEC said the decision followed a review of the exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders across the country.

According to the commission, the extension demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the national register of voters.

The electoral body also unveiled a self-service voter registration option for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve accessibility, innovation and service delivery.

The online platform will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the commission’s dedicated CVR portal, cvr.inecnigeria.org, where a step-by-step guide for users has also been provided.

Under the new arrangement, eligible citizens will be able to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without physically visiting an INEC office.

INEC stated that the system incorporates identity verification measures, biometric validation procedures and backend integrity checks aimed at preserving the credibility and accuracy of the national register of voters.

The commission urged Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extension period and the newly introduced technology-driven option to complete their registration.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process, while continuing to deploy technology to enhance citizens’ participation and experience in the nation’s electoral system.