INEC Extends Nationwide Voter Registration By Two Weeks, Introduces Online Self-Service Registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, shifting the deadline from July 10 to July 26, 2026.
The extension was announced in a statement dated July 3, 2026, and signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC).
According to the Commission, the decision followed a review of the exercise and consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
Haruna noted that the CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026.
He explained that the extension would provide additional time for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to be captured in the National Register of Voters ahead of future elections.
The Commission also announced the introduction of a self-service online voter registration platform for first time registrants, which will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
According to Haruna, eligible citizens can access the service through the Commission’s dedicated CVR portal, cvr.inecnigeria.org, where a step-by-step registration guide is available.
He said the new platform would allow eligible Nigerians to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without the need to visit an INEC office physically.
Haruna added that the system is equipped with identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
The Commission urged all eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and the newly introduced technology.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process through the deployment of technology to enhance citizens’ participation in the electoral process.
