INEC extends nationwide voter registration by two weeks, introduces online self-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 elections.

The Commission announced the extension in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna.

Haruna said the decision followed a comprehensive review of the exercise and consultations with INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders.

He recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, and was originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026.

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According to him, the registration exercise will now end on Sunday, July 26, 2026, to provide more eligible Nigerians with the opportunity to enrol in the National Register of Voters.

“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to register as a voter,” Haruna stated.

The INEC National Commissioner also announced the introduction of a self-service online voter registration platform designed to improve accessibility and enhance service delivery.

He disclosed that the digital registration platform will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through INEC’s dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal.

According to Haruna, the platform provides a step-by-step guide that enables eligible first-time voters to complete their registration process conveniently using their personal digital devices.

He explained that the self-service option allows applicants to initiate and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, without the need to visit INEC offices physically.

Haruna noted that the technology-driven platform incorporates robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

He urged all eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and embrace the new digital registration option.

Haruna reiterated the Commission’s commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process through innovative technologies that strengthen citizens’ participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.

(NAN)