INEC Launches Online Self-Service Voter Registration Portal, Extends CVR Deadline to July 26

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced a self-service online voter registration platform that will allow eligible first-time voters to complete their registration process digitally without visiting physical registration centres.

The new platform, which is part of the commission’s efforts to improve accessibility and strengthen citizens participation in the electoral process, will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal.

Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, disclosed this during a press briefing in Lafia on Tuesday, explaining that eligible citizens would be able to access step-by-step registration instructions through the portal.

According to him, the self-service system will enable first-time voters to initiate and complete the registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices.

He said the platform was developed with security measures such as identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks to protect the accuracy and credibility of the National Register of Voters.

Abubakar-Sadiq said the introduction of the technology-driven platform reflects INEC’s commitment to improving voter access, reducing barriers to registration and delivering a more efficient electoral service.

However, he clarified that the online option is currently designed for first-time voters, while citizens who have already started physical registration, those seeking transfer of voting locations, and persons requiring replacement of stolen or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) must still visit INEC registration centres.

The REC also announced that INEC had extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise by two weeks.

The third and final phase of the exercise, which was initially scheduled to end on July 10, will now close on July 26.

He explained that the extension followed a review of the registration exercise and feedback received from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

“The extension is to provide additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register as voters to do so ahead of future electoral activities,” Abubakar-Sadiq said.

He added that the decision underscores INEC’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair opportunity to be included in the National Register of Voters.

The REC recalled that the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, noting that earlier phases recorded significant participation across Nasarawa State, including registrations by Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).

He urged eligible Nigerians who have not registered to take advantage of both the extended deadline and the newly introduced online registration platform.

Abubakar-Sadiq reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, transparent and inclusive voter registration process through technology deployment, while appreciating political parties, the media, civil society groups, security agencies and other stakeholders for supporting efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.