INEC Introduces Self-Service Voter Registration, Extends CVR by Two Weeks

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve access to the electoral process and enhance service delivery.

The Commission also announced a two-week extension of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, giving eligible Nigerians until July 26, 2026, to register ahead of future elections.

The decisions were contained in a statement signed on Friday by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

INEC said the new self-service registration option will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through its dedicated CVR portal, enabling eligible first-time voters to complete the registration process online using their personal devices.

According to the Commission, the platform allows applicants to initiate and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, without physically visiting an INEC office.

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

The Commission said the innovation reflects its commitment to leveraging technology to make voter registration more accessible while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

INEC also announced that it had extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise following a review of the exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

The Commission recalled that the nationwide CVR commenced on August 18, 2025, and was initially scheduled to end on **July 10, 2026.

However, it said the registration exercise would now continue until Sunday, July 26, 2026, to provide additional opportunities for eligible Nigerians who have yet to register.

“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 urged all eligible citizens who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and the newly introduced online self-service platform.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process, adding that it would continue to deploy technology to improve citizens’ experience in the country’s electoral system.