The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections, including the 2027 general polls.
The electoral body announced that the registration exercise, which was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now continue until July 24, 2026.
INEC said the decision followed consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders, who requested additional time to enable more citizens complete the registration process.
In a statement issued by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, the Commission explained that the extension reflects its determination to ensure that no eligible voter is denied the chance to be included in the National Register of Voters.
As part of efforts to modernise the registration process, INEC also unveiled a new self-service online voter registration platform for first-time voters.
The Commission said the digital service will become operational on July 8, 2026, allowing eligible Nigerians to begin and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without first visiting an INEC office.
According to the Commission, the online platform has been equipped with advanced identity verification, biometric validation and security features designed to safeguard the credibility and integrity of the voters’ register.
INEC noted that the initiative is aimed at improving accessibility, reducing congestion at registration centres and making the voter registration process faster and more convenient for citizens across the country.
The Commission urged Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended deadline and the newly introduced online registration option, reaffirming its commitment to delivering a transparent, inclusive and technology-driven electoral process ahead of the next round of elections.
