The Independent National Electoral Commission** has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks and unveiled a self-service online registration platform, in a move aimed at expanding voter participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The electoral umpire said the registration exercise, previously scheduled to end on July 10, will now close on July 26, following appeals from stakeholders and an assessment of the exercise across the country.
The decision was announced in a statement issued on Friday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna.
According to him, the extension followed consultations with INEC’s state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders, who called for more time to enable eligible Nigerians to register.
“The commission has extended the exercise to Sunday, July 26, to provide an additional opportunity for eligible citizens who are yet to register,” Haruna said.
Beyond extending the deadline, INEC also introduced a technology-driven self-service registration system that allows first-time voters to complete the registration process online using their personal digital devices.
Haruna said the platform will become operational on **July 8** through the commission’s dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal.
He explained that the new system provides step-by-step guidance for applicants and incorporates identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks to protect the credibility of the National Register of Voters.
According to the commission, the innovation is designed to simplify voter registration, reduce physical visits to INEC offices and improve access to electoral services, particularly for eligible Nigerians who may face logistical challenges.
Haruna urged citizens who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the new digital platform.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to deploying technology to strengthen the integrity, inclusiveness and accessibility of Nigeria’s voter registration process as preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace.