INEC Extends Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Introduces Online Self-Service Registration Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The electoral umpire also announced the introduction of an online self-service voter registration platform, a major technological innovation aimed at making the registration process more convenient and accessible for first-time voters.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

According to INEC, the decision to extend the registration exercise followed a comprehensive review of the exercise and consultations with its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

The Continuous Voter Registration exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, was originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026. However, the commission has now shifted the deadline to Friday, July 24, 2026, to ensure that more eligible citizens are captured in the National Register of Voters.

INEC described the extension as part of its commitment to providing every qualified Nigerian with a fair opportunity to register and participate in future elections.

In addition to the extension, the commission unveiled a new online self-service registration system that allows eligible first-time voters to initiate and complete their voter registration process—including biometric capture—using their personal devices without physically visiting an INEC office.

The commission explained that the digital platform is equipped with advanced identity verification, biometric validation, and backend security measures designed to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the National Register of Voters.

INEC added that a detailed step-by-step guide will be available on the portal to help users navigate the registration process with ease.

The electoral body encouraged all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online option.

According to the commission, the initiative reflects its continued commitment to building a more credible, inclusive, and technology-driven electoral process while improving citizens’ access to voter registration services ahead of the 2027 polls.

With the extension now in place, prospective voters have a final opportunity to secure their voter registration before preparations for the next general election enter a more advanced stage.