INEC Announces Final Phase of Nationwide Voter Registration Ahead of 2027 Elections

 

ABUJA, Nigeria — May 5, 2026 — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the resumption of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise for its third and final phase, scheduled to begin on May 11, 2026.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission disclosed that the exercise will run until July 10, 2026, giving eligible Nigerians another opportunity to register ahead of upcoming elections.

INEC explained that the second phase of the registration was suspended on April 17, 2026, to enable officials clean up the voter register following its publication for public scrutiny, including claims and objections.

According to the Commission, the final phase is open to citizens who have recently turned 18, as well as those who missed earlier registration periods. It also provides an avenue for already registered voters to transfer their registration, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), or correct personal information.

Eligible voters can complete part of the process online via INEC’s CVR portal or visit designated registration centres at state and local government offices nationwide.

INEC further announced that the provisional voter register will be displayed between July 23 and July 29, 2026, allowing members of the public to verify details and raise objections where necessary. The Commission noted that this step is critical to ensuring the credibility and accuracy of the voter database.

Reassuring the public of its readiness, INEC said all necessary arrangements have been put in place for a smooth exercise and urged Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in strengthening the country’s democratic process.

The statement was signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.