INEC extends voter registration by 2 weeks, unveils full self-service option
INEC Extends Voter Registration Deadline by Two Weeks
By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a two-week extension of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) period, moving the deadline from July 10 to July 24, 2026.
The announcement was made on Friday night by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee. He indicated that the decision to extend the CVR period was based on reviews and feedback from state offices, political parties, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
The CVR initiative, which began on August 18, 2025, aims to provide additional opportunities for eligible citizens who have not yet registered to do so ahead of upcoming electoral activities. Haruna emphasized that this extension reflects INEC’s commitment to ensuring every eligible Nigerian has a fair chance to be included in the Register of Voters.
Additionally, INEC introduced a self-service online registration option for first-time voters. This new service will launch on July 8, 2026, through the CVR portal at cvr.inecnigeria.org, where users will find a step-by-step registration guide.
The self-service system allows eligible citizens to complete their registration, including biometric capture, using personal devices without needing to visit an INEC office. The Commission has incorporated identity verification, biometric validation, and backend checks to maintain the integrity of the National Register of Voters.
INEC urged eligible Nigerians to take advantage of the extended registration period and the new online technology, reaffirming its dedication to a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process enhanced by technological advancements.