By Daniel Aondoaseer Zendesha 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, moving the deadline from July 10 to July 24, 2026. The Commission also announced a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve accessibility and participation.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved a two-week extension of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise following a review of its progress and consultations with stakeholders across the country.

According to the Commission, the decision followed feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders, all of whom advocated for additional time to enable more eligible Nigerians to register.

The CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to conclude on July 10, 2026. Under the revised timetable, registration will now end on Friday, July 24, 2026.

In another major development, INEC announced the introduction of a self-service voter registration system specifically designed for eligible first-time voters. The new service is scheduled to become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through the Commission's dedicated CVR portal.

According to INEC, the platform will allow eligible citizens to initiate and complete their voter registration process including biometric capture—using their personal devices from any location without visiting an INEC office.

The Commission stated that the system incorporates identity verification mechanisms, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

INEC encouraged Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the new digital platform.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting an inclusive, accessible, and credible voter registration process through the adoption of technology and continuous electoral reforms.

The announcement was contained in a press statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), on July 3, 2026.