By 
By Dayo Fadairo and Hassan U
Commission expands access with technology-driven self-service platform as more eligible Nigerians gain additional time to register
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched a new technology-driven online self-service voter registration platform that allows eligible first-time voters to complete their registration remotely while extending the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks to enable more Nigerians participate in the electoral process.
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The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, announced the initiative during a media briefing in Lafia, describing the digital platform as another milestone in INEC’s efforts to modernise voter registration, improve accessibility and strengthen electoral integrity through technology.
According to him, the new platform became operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal.
Technology Powers a More Accessible Voter Registration Process
The newly introduced self-service platform enables eligible Nigerians registering for the first time to initiate and complete their voter registration process using internet-enabled smartphones, tablets or computers without physically visiting an INEC office.
Unlike previous online pre-registration systems that still required applicants to visit registration centres for biometric capture, the upgraded platform allows users to complete biometric enrolment remotely through their personal devices.
According to INEC, the platform integrates advanced identity verification, biometric authentication and backend integrity checks designed to protect the credibility, accuracy and integrity of the National Register of Voters.
The initiative reflects the Commission’s broader digital transformation strategy aimed at improving service delivery while making voter registration more convenient and inclusive.
Continuous Voter Registration Extended
INEC also announced a two-week extension of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
The third and final phase of the registration exercise, originally scheduled to conclude on July 10, 2026, will now end on July 26, 2026, providing additional time for eligible Nigerians who have yet to register.
According to Abubakar-Sadiq, the extension followed consultations and reviews involving INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other critical stakeholders across the country.
“The extension is to provide an additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register as voters to do so ahead of future electoral activities,” he said.
He added:
“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.”
Who Can Use the New Online Platform?
INEC clarified that the fully digital registration option is currently available to first-time voter registrants who meet the constitutional voting requirements.
Eligible citizens can now:
- Complete voter registration online
- Capture biometric information remotely
- Verify their identities digitally
- Submit registration without visiting an INEC office
However, the Commission advised that individuals seeking to:
- Transfer their voting locations
- Replace lost, stolen or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs)
- Correct personal information
will still be required to visit designated INEC registration centres to complete their requests.
Advanced Security Features Protect Voter Register
To maintain public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system, INEC said the digital platform incorporates multiple security layers designed to prevent fraud and duplicate registrations.
These include:
- Robust identity verification
- Biometric validation
- Backend integrity checks
- Automated duplicate detection
- Secure voter data management
The Commission said these safeguards will ensure that only eligible voters are enrolled while preserving the integrity of the National Register of Voters.
Technology Driving Electoral Inclusion
Abubakar-Sadiq noted that the digital platform aligns with INEC’s commitment to leveraging technology to deliver more transparent, accessible and citizen-focused electoral services.
He recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, with the first two phases recording significant participation across Nasarawa State, including registrations by Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).
He encouraged all eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online registration platform.
Stakeholders Commended for Supporting Democratic Process
The REC reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, transparent and inclusive voter registration process supported by innovative digital technologies.
He also expressed appreciation to the media, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promoting wider citizen participation in elections.
The latest digital initiative further demonstrates INEC’s determination to modernise Nigeria’s electoral system by using technology to improve voter experience while enhancing the security, efficiency and credibility of the country’s electoral process.
