The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, giving millions of eligible Nigerians additional time to register ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The commission announced that the exercise, which was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now close on Friday, July 24, 2026, following a review of the registration exercise and consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
INEC said the extension underscores its commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be captured in the National Register of Voters.
In a major innovation, the electoral body also unveiled a self-service online voter registration portal for first-time voters.
The platform, which becomes operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, will enable eligible Nigerians to begin and complete their voter registration process electronically using their personal digital devices.
According to the commission, the technology-driven platform incorporates biometric capture, identity verification and backend integrity checks designed to protect the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters while reducing the need for physical visits to INEC offices.
INEC noted that the online portal is accompanied by a step-by-step registration guide to help applicants complete the process seamlessly.
The commission urged all eligible Nigerians who have yet to register as voters to take advantage of the extended registration period and the newly introduced online self-service option.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration exercise while leveraging technology to improve service delivery and strengthen citizens’ participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
