The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks and introduced an online self-service registration platform to make voter registration more accessible for eligible Nigerians.
The commission announced the development in a statement issued on Friday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to INEC, the decision to extend the registration exercise followed a comprehensive review of its progress and consultations with state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders.
The nationwide 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 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, INEC also unveiled an online self-service voter registration portal that will allow first-time voters to initiate and complete their registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting any INEC office.
The commission said the platform will feature a step-by-step guide to help users complete the registration process with ease.
According to INEC, the new system incorporates 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 are yet to register 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 and strengthen electoral participation ahead of future elections.
