INEC Extends Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Launches Full Online Registration for First-Time Voters

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks, while unveiling a new online self-service platform that will allow eligible first-time voters to complete their registration entirely online.

The commission announced on Friday that the exercise, initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now continue until Friday, July 24, 2026, following consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

The extension is expected to provide more time for millions of eligible Nigerians who have yet to register ahead of future elections, reinforcing INEC’s commitment to broadening voter participation.

In what the commission described as a major technological advancement, a fully online self-service registration platform will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Through the portal, eligible first-time voters will be able to complete the entire registration process—including biometric capture—from their personal devices without visiting any INEC office.

According to the commission, the digital platform is equipped with robust identity verification systems, biometric validation and backend integrity checks designed to safeguard the credibility of the National Register of Voters.

INEC said the decision to extend the registration exercise reflects its determination to ensure that no eligible Nigerian is denied the opportunity to register and participate in the country’s democratic process.

“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,” the electoral body stated.

The commission also encouraged Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration window and the newly introduced digital registration option.

INEC reaffirmed that it remains committed to delivering a voter registration process that is credible, inclusive and accessible, while leveraging technology to make electoral services more efficient and convenient for citizens.