INEC Extends Nationwide Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Launches Online Self-Service Registration

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks and announced the introduction of an online self-service registration platform for first-time voters.

The commission said the extension followed a review of the nationwide exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

In a statement issued on Friday by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC said the registration exercise, initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now conclude on Friday, July 24, 2026.

According to the commission, the extension is intended to provide additional time for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register 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 online registration option for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve accessibility and service delivery.

The new platform will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the commission’s dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal.

The commission said the system will 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.

It added that the platform is equipped with identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks designed to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

INEC urged all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online registration option.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process while leveraging technology to enhance citizens’ participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.