INEC announces two-week extension of voter registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, giving eligible Nigerians additional time to enrol as voters. The extension moves the deadline from July 10, 2026, to Sunday, July 26, 2026.
Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, announced the decision in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja. He said the extension followed a review of the ongoing exercise and feedback from state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.
Background of the CVR exercise
The nationwide Continuous Voter Registration began on August 18, 2025, and was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026. According to Mr Haruna, the commission decided to extend the period to ensure that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to join the National Register of Voters.
“In order to provide additional opportunity for eligible citizens who are yet to register, the commission has extended the exercise to Sunday, July 26,” Mr Haruna stated.
Introduction of self-service online registration
Mr Haruna also announced the introduction of a self-service online registration option for eligible first-time voters. The new platform will become available from Wednesday, July 8, through INEC’s dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal.
“The self-service option will enable eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices,” he said. The portal provides a step-by-step guide that enables applicants to complete the registration process conveniently on personal digital devices.
Technology-driven improvements
Mr Haruna explained that applicants would no longer need to visit INEC offices physically to complete the registration process under the new technology-driven system. He noted that the platform features “robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks” to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
The national commissioner urged all eligible Nigerians who have yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and embrace the new digital registration option. He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process through technology-driven innovations that enhance citizens’ participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
