Nigeria's INEC extends voter registration deadline and launches online portal

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks. The deadline, originally set for 10 July 2026, is now pushed to late July 2026 (officially 24 July in most statements and 26 July in some releases), giving more eligible Nigerians time to enrol before the 2027 general elections.

A new online self‑service registration platform for first‑time voters will become operational on 8 July 2026. The portal, accessed via the CVR website, allows applicants to complete the entire registration process – including identity verification and biometric capture – using a smartphone or computer, without visiting an INEC office. The system incorporates biometric validation and backend integrity checks to protect the credibility of the National Register of Voters.

INEC said the extension follows a review of the exercise and consultations with state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed (Kudu) Haruna, emphasized the commission’s commitment to a credible, inclusive and technology‑driven voter registration process.