The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks, shifting the deadline from July 10 to July 24, 2026, in a move aimed at enabling more eligible Nigerians to register ahead of future elections.
The commission announced the extension in a statement issued on Friday by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to INEC, the decision followed a review of the registration exercise and consultations with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations and state offices of the commission across the country.
The nationwide CVR exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, and is expected to be the final major voter registration exercise before the 2027 general elections.
In addition to the extension, the electoral body unveiled a new online self-service registration platform designed to simplify the voter registration process and improve accessibility.
Under the new arrangement, eligible Nigerians will be able to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting an INEC office.
The commission explained that the platform is equipped with advanced identity verification systems, biometric validation technology and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility of the National Register of Voters.
INEC urged Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of the extension and the newly introduced digital option.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a credible, inclusive and technology-driven electoral process capable of increasing citizens’ participation in democratic governance.
