INEC Extends Continuous Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Launches Online Self-Service Registration for First-Time Voters
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, shifting the closing date from July 10 to July 24, 2026.
The Commission said the decision followed a review of the exercise and feedback from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders. According to INEC, the extension is aimed at giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.
INEC also announced the introduction of a self-service online voter registration platform for first-time voters. The new service will be available from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the Commission’s dedicated CVR portal.
The online platform will allow eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting an INEC office.
The Commission said the system is equipped with identity verification, biometric validation, and other integrity checks to safeguard the credibility of the National Register of Voters.
INEC urged all eligible Nigerians who have yet to register to take advantage of the extension and the new technology-driven registration option, reaffirming its commitment to a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process.
