The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks.
Alongside the extension, the electoral body has unveiled an online self-service registration option for eligible first-time voters.
The commission announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to INEC, the decision followed a review of the exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
The nationwide CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026. This process is expected to be the final major voter registration drive ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, the commission has now extended the exercise until Friday, July 24, 2026, to enable more eligible Nigerians to register.
“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 said.
INEC also announced the launch of an online self-service portal, which will allow eligible Nigerians to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without physically visiting any INEC office.
The commission noted that a step-by-step guide will be available on the portal to assist users.
According to INEC, the system has “robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks designed to preserve 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 the extended registration period and the newly introduced online option.
“The Commission remains committed to a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process, and to advancing the use of technology to improve citizens’ experience in the electoral process,” the statement stated.
