The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration, moving the deadline from July 10 to Friday, July 24, 2026. The decision was disclosed on Friday night, July 3, in Abuja by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
Reason for Extension
According to Haruna, the extension followed a comprehensive review of the exercise and feedback from the Commission’s state offices, political parties, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, is being extended to provide eligible citizens who have not yet registered an additional opportunity to do so ahead of future electoral activities. The Commission emphasized that this move underscores its commitment to ensuring every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable chance to be included in the Register of Voters.
Introduction of Self-Service Online Registration
In addition to the extension, the electoral body announced the introduction of a self-service online registration option for eligible first-time voters. The new service will become available from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the dedicated portal, cvr.inecnigeria.org, where a step-by-step guide will also be provided. The Commission explained that this option allows eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without needing to physically visit an office.
Technology and Integrity Measures
The system incorporates identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks designed to preserve the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters. The Commission urged eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended window and explore the new registration technology, stressing its commitment to a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process anchored on the use of technology to improve the citizen experience in the electoral process.
