Amanze Chinonye
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks and introduced a fully online self-service registration platform for first-time voters, in a move aimed at expanding voter access and improving participation ahead of future elections, Prime Business Africa reports.
The Commission announced on Friday that the registration exercise, which was originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now continue until Friday, July 24, 2026.
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According to INEC, the extension followed a review of the exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
The CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, is designed to register eligible Nigerians and update the National Register of Voters in preparation for upcoming elections.
In a major technological upgrade, INEC also announced that from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, eligible first-time voters will be able to complete their registration online through a dedicated self-service portal.
The Commission said the platform, accessible via cvr.inecnigeria.org, will enable applicants to complete the entire registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices from any location, eliminating the need to visit an INEC office.
It explained that the system is backed by robust identity verification, biometric validation and other security checks to safeguard the integrity of the National Register of Voters.
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The introduction of the digital platform marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s voter registration process, as it is expected to reduce congestion at registration centres, improve accessibility for eligible citizens and encourage wider participation in the electoral process through the use of technology.
INEC said the two-week extension further underscores its commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to register before the exercise closes.
The Commission urged all eligible but unregistered citizens to take advantage of both the extended registration window and the new online platform.
It reiterated its commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive and accessible voter registration process while leveraging technology to enhance citizens’ experience and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
