The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks, shifting the deadline from July 10 to July 24, 2026, in a move aimed at giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The extension was approved following appeals from stakeholders and growing public interest in the exercise. According to the commission, some registration centres may continue operations until July 26 to accommodate pending applicants.

A major highlight of the extension is the introduction of a self-service online voter registration platform, scheduled to go live on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The platform is designed to enable eligible citizens to begin and complete significant parts of the registration process remotely, reducing congestion at INEC offices nationwide.

The new system will allow first-time voters, citizens seeking transfers of registration, and those wishing to correct personal details to access registration services through their smartphones, tablets, or computers. The platform also incorporates biometric validation and identity verification features to ensure the integrity of the voters' register.

INEC said the initiative forms part of its efforts to leverage technology to improve voter registration, enhance accessibility, and minimize long queues traditionally associated with the exercise.

Eligible Nigerians, particularly those who recently turned 18 years old, have been urged to take advantage of the extension period and register before the new deadline.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible, transparent, and inclusive elections by ensuring that every qualified citizen has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.