The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks and unveiled an online self-service registration platform for eligible first-time voters.
The electoral commission announced the decision in a statement issued on Friday by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to INEC, the extension followed a review of the registration exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
The CVR exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, was originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026. However, the commission has now extended the deadline to Friday, July 24, 2026, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.
INEC noted that the exercise is expected to be the final major voter registration exercise before the 2027 general elections.
“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 statement read.
In a major technological upgrade, the commission also launched an online self-service portal that will allow eligible Nigerians to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting an INEC office.
The commission said users would have access to a step-by-step guide on the portal to simplify the registration process.
According to INEC, the online system is equipped with robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
The electoral body urged all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online registration option.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process while leveraging technology to improve citizens’ experience in Nigeria’s electoral system.
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