ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced a self-service online voter registration platform to enable eligible first-time voters complete the registration process using their personal devices, as part of efforts to improve access, efficiency and participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, announced the development during a news briefing on Tuesday in Lafia.
He disclosed that the platform will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal, where prospective voters will have access to detailed step-by-step registration guidelines.
According to him, the new platform allows first-time voters to initiate and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, without the need to physically visit any INEC office.
Abubakar-Sadiq explained that the digital platform is equipped with robust identity verification systems, biometric validation and backend integrity checks designed to safeguard the credibility, integrity and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
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He said the initiative reflects the Commission’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and improved service delivery for eligible Nigerians.
The REC, however, clarified that voters seeking to complete an ongoing physical registration, transfer their voting location or replace lost, stolen or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) must still visit designated INEC registration centres.
He also announced that the Commission has approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
According to him, the third and final phase of the exercise, originally scheduled to end on July 10, will now conclude on July 26.
Abubakar-Sadiq explained that the extension followed a nationwide assessment of the exercise as well as feedback received from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders.
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“The extension is to provide additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register as voters to do so ahead of future electoral activities.
“It underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the National Register of Voters,” he said.
The REC recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, noting that the first and second phases recorded significant turnout across Nasarawa State, including registrations by Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).
He urged all eligible residents who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced technology-driven platform.
Abubakar-Sadiq reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to delivering a credible, transparent, inclusive and accessible voter registration process through the deployment of technology to improve the overall experience of Nigerian voters.
He also appreciated the media, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.