INEC Unveils Online Voter Registration, Extends Nationwide CVR Exercise by Two Weeks

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched a self-service online voter registration platform aimed at making voter enrolment easier and more accessible for Nigerians, while also extending the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, announced the development during a press briefing in Lafia on Tuesday, describing it as a major step in the Commission’s drive to leverage technology to deepen electoral participation and improve service delivery.

According to him, the new digital platform will become operational on July 8, allowing eligible first-time voters to begin and complete their registration process through INEC’s CVR portal using personal devices.

He explained that the innovation eliminates the need for prospective voters to physically visit INEC offices for initial registration, as the platform provides detailed registration guidelines and supports biometric capture and verification remotely.

Abubakar-Sadiq noted that the system has been equipped with advanced security features, including identity authentication, biometric validation and backend integrity checks, to ensure the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

“This initiative reflects the Commission’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and efficient service delivery,” he said.

The REC, however, clarified that individuals seeking to transfer their voting locations, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), or complete previously initiated physical registrations would still be required to visit designated INEC registration centres.

In another significant development, Abubakar-Sadiq disclosed that INEC had approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide CVR exercise.

He said the third and final phase of the exercise, originally scheduled to conclude on July 10, will now run until July 26, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.

The decision, he explained, followed a comprehensive review of the exercise nationwide and consultations with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations and INEC offices across the country.

“The extension is intended to provide additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered as voters to do so. It demonstrates the Commission’s determination to ensure that every eligible citizen has a fair and reasonable chance to be included in the National Register of Voters,” he stated.

The REC recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise began on August 18, 2025, noting that the first two phases recorded encouraging turnout across Nasarawa State, including participation by Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).

He urged residents who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extension and the newly introduced online registration system.

Abubakar-Sadiq reiterated INEC’s resolve to deliver a voter registration process that is credible, transparent, inclusive and accessible, stressing that technology remains central to improving citizens’ experience and strengthening democratic participation.

He also commended the media, political parties, civil society groups, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support in advancing Nigeria’s democratic process.