NEWS
JUST IN: INEC Extends Continuous Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Introduces Self-Service Online Registration
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 future electoral activities.
The commission announced that the exercise, which was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now conclude on Friday, July 24, 2026.
The announcement was made on Friday night in Abuja by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to the commission, the decision followed a comprehensive review of the ongoing registration exercise as well as feedback received from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders.
INEC explained that the Continuous Voter Registration exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was extended to ensure that eligible Nigerians who are yet to register have sufficient opportunity to be included in the National Register of Voters before upcoming electoral activities.
The electoral body stated that the extension demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian is given a fair and reasonable opportunity to register and participate in the country’s democratic process.
In a major technological innovation aimed at improving voter registration, INEC also announced the introduction of a self-service online registration platform for first-time voters.
The commission disclosed that the new service will become operational from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through its dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal, where users will have access to a step-by-step registration guide.
Under the new system, eligible Nigerians will be able to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without the need to physically visit an INEC office.
INEC noted that the digital registration platform has been equipped with identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks designed to safeguard the credibility, transparency and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
The commission urged all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of the extended registration period and embrace the newly introduced technology to complete their registration with ease.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process, leveraging technology to enhance citizens’ participation and improve their overall experience in Nigeria’s electoral process.