The Independent National Electoral Commission has extended the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise by two weeks following feedback from state offices, political parties, and civil society groups. Mohammed Kudu Haruna, national commissioner and chairman of the Information and Voters Education Committee, announced the decision.
The CVR exercise, which started on August 18, 2025, was originally meant to end on July 10, 2026. It will now run until Sunday, July 26, 2026, according to Haruna.
"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," he said.
For the first time, INEC is introducing self-service online registration for eligible first-time voters. The new option becomes available on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 through the Commission's CVR portal at cvr.inecnigeria.org.
Haruna noted that the platform provides a step-by-step guide for users. Citizens can now register from their personal devices without visiting an INEC office.
"The self-service option will enable eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices," the commissioner said. The system includes identity verification, biometric validation, and backend checks to maintain the integrity of the National Register of Voters.
The move reflects INEC's push toward innovation and accessibility in electoral processes. The Commission said it remains dedicated to a credible, inclusive, and accessible registration system.
Haruna urged all eligible Nigerians who haven't yet registered to use the extended deadline and try the new technology option. He stressed that INEC is committed to improving citizens' experience in electoral matters through technology advancement.
