The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks and introduced an online self-service registration platform for eligible first-time voters.
The Commission announced the decisions in a statement issued on Friday by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to the statement, the nationwide CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, and was originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now conclude on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
INEC said the extension followed a review of the ongoing registration exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
The Commission explained that the decision was aimed at providing additional opportunities for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to be included in the national register of voters ahead of future 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 ahead of future electoral activities," the statement said.
INEC also announced the introduction of a self-service voter registration option for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve accessibility and service delivery through technology.
The Commission disclosed that the online registration service would become available from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through its dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal.
It explained that the platform would enable eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without physically visiting any INEC office.
According to the Commission, the online system incorporates robust identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks designed to preserve the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
INEC urged all eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and utilise the new technology-driven registration option.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process while leveraging technology to enhance citizens' participation and experience in Nigeria's electoral process.
