The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to enhance access to voter registration and improve participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, announced the development during a press briefing in Lafia on Tuesday.
He said the new platform would become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal, where prospective voters can access registration guidelines and complete the process.
According to the REC, the initiative enables eligible first-time voters to begin and complete their registration, including biometric enrolment, using their personal devices without visiting any INEC office.
Abubakar-Sadiq explained that the platform is equipped with advanced identity verification, biometric validation and integrity checks designed to protect the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
He said the initiative reflects the Commission’s commitment to deploying technology to improve accessibility and service delivery.
The REC, however, clarified that individuals seeking to transfer their voting locations, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), or those who had already commenced physical registration would still be required to visit designated INEC registration centres.
He also disclosed that the Commission had approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
According to him, the third and final phase of the exercise, which was initially scheduled to conclude on July 10, will now end on July 26.
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Abubakar-Sadiq said the decision followed a review of the exercise and consultations with state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
He noted that the extension would provide more eligible Nigerians with the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.
The REC recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise began on August 18, 2025, adding that the first two phases recorded significant participation across Nasarawa State, including registrations by persons living with disabilities.
He urged all eligible residents who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online platform.
Abubakar-Sadiq reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a transparent, inclusive and credible voter registration process through the use of technology, while appreciating the support of the media, political parties, civil society groups, security agencies and other stakeholders in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.