INEC begins 50-day rotational voter registration across Lagos
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lagos State is set to launch a 50-day rotational Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, aimed at enhancing voter participation and reducing apathy ahead of the 2027 General Elections. This initiative was announced by Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Prof. Ayobami Salami during a recent stakeholders’ meeting about the second phase of the CVR.
Prof. Salami emphasized that the CVR is one of INEC’s crucial statutory obligations and serves as the primary channel for eligible Nigerians to register to vote, update personal information, transfer registration, and replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The second phase of the CVR aims to build on the successes and lessons learned from the first phase by improving access and efficiency through a rotational approach.
The CVR will be conducted across all wards in Lagos State for 50 days, starting from February 2, 2026, and concluding on April 10, 2026. The final week of the registration will be centralized at local government offices, providing an opportunity for residents to finalize their voter registration. Further details about the exercise will be communicated through INEC’s official channels.
Prof. Salami assured stakeholders that INEC has put measures in place to facilitate a seamless and credible registration process, including enhanced logistics, deployment of trained personnel, and improved technology to minimize delays and bolster public confidence. However, he emphasized that the success of the exercise will heavily rely on the collaboration of political figures and other stakeholders.
Political parties are urged to educate their members about the registration guidelines and to avoid actions that could jeopardize the integrity of the process. In addition, civil society organizations, media outfits, traditional and religious leaders, along with youth and women’s groups, are called upon to increase efforts in voter education and mobilization.
Prof. Salami reiterated that voter registration is not merely a civic duty but serves as a foundational element of democratic representation and accountable governance, which offers shared societal benefits. He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to upholding integrity and transparency throughout the exercise, assuring Lagos residents that there will be continual improvements in service delivery and the protection of the electoral process’s credibility.
In summary, this initiative by INEC reflects a proactive approach to engaging the electorate, ensuring that every eligible voter in Lagos State has an opportunity to participate in the democratic process ahead of the upcoming elections. By focusing on accessibility and cooperation among various stakeholders, INEC aims to foster greater civic engagement and strengthen the electoral framework in the region.
