The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional two weeks to allow more eligible Nigerians to register ahead of future elections.

The CVR exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026.

Announcing the extension in a statement on Friday, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the decision was informed by feedback from the Commission’s state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

According to Haruna, the registration exercise will now conclude on Friday, July 24, 2026.

He said the extension is aimed at providing additional opportunities for eligible citizens who have yet to register, stressing that it reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every qualified Nigerian is included in the National Register of Voters.

Haruna also announced the introduction of a self-service online registration platform for eligible first-time voters. The new service, which will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, can be accessed through INEC’s dedicated CVR portal.

He explained that the platform allows prospective voters to begin and complete their registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without the need to visit an INEC office.

The National Commissioner noted that the system is equipped with identity verification mechanisms, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility and accuracy of the voter register.

“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the Register of Voters ahead of future electoral activities,” he said.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process, adding that the deployment of technology is intended to improve citizens’ experience and expand access to electoral services.

The Commission urged all eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extended registration period and the newly introduced online registration option.