The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks, giving eligible Nigerians more time to register ahead of future elections.
The CVR exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026. However, INEC announced that the exercise will now conclude on Friday, July 24, 2026.
The Commission’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed the extension in a statement issued on Friday.
According to INEC, the decision followed feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders who requested additional time to enable more eligible Nigerians to register.
Haruna said the extension reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible citizen has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the National Register of Voters ahead of the 2027 general elections and other future electoral activities.
In a major technological innovation, INEC also announced the introduction of a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters.
The new service will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the Commission’s dedicated CVR portal, where users will be able to begin and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices.
According to the Commission, the online registration system incorporates robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
INEC said the initiative is part of its broader commitment to improving accessibility, enhancing service delivery, and leveraging technology to make voter registration more convenient for Nigerians.
The electoral body urged all eligible citizens who have yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and utilise the new online registration option before the exercise closes on July 24, 2026.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process as preparations continue for the 2027 general elections.
