The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to voter registration, improve service delivery and encourage greater participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, announced the development during a press briefing held on Tuesday in Lafia.
According to him, the new platform will officially become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) portal, where prospective voters can access comprehensive guidelines on the registration process.
Abubakar-Sadiq explained that the digital platform allows eligible first-time voters to begin and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without the need to visit an INEC office physically.
He noted that the innovation is designed to simplify voter registration while reducing congestion at registration centres across the country.
The REC said the platform has been equipped with advanced identity verification mechanisms, biometric validation technology and backend integrity checks to protect the credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
According to him, the measures are intended to prevent duplication, identity fraud and other forms of abuse that could compromise the integrity of the voter register.
He described the initiative as another milestone in INEC’s commitment to deploying technology to enhance electoral services and make voter registration more accessible to eligible Nigerians.
“This initiative is in line with the Commission’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and improved service delivery,” he said.
Abubakar-Sadiq, however, clarified that individuals who had already commenced physical registration, requested a transfer of their voting location or applied for the replacement of lost, stolen or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) must still visit designated INEC registration centres to complete those processes.
He also announced that the Commission has approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
The third and final phase of the exercise, originally scheduled to conclude on July 10, will now end on July 26.
According to the REC, the extension followed a comprehensive review of the nationwide exercise as well as feedback received from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
He said the decision would provide additional time for Nigerians who have not yet registered to do so before future electoral activities.
“The extension is to provide additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register as voters to do so ahead of future electoral activities.
“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,” he stated.
Abubakar-Sadiq recalled that the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise began on August 18, 2025, noting that the first and second phases recorded impressive turnout across Nasarawa State.
He added that the exercise also witnessed the participation of Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), reflecting the Commission’s commitment to inclusive voter registration.
The REC encouraged all eligible residents of Nasarawa State who are yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online platform.
He reaffirmed INEC’s determination to conduct a transparent, inclusive and credible voter registration process through the effective deployment of technology.
Abubakar-Sadiq also expressed appreciation to the media, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support in promoting Nigeria’s democratic process.
He said their collaboration remains vital to strengthening public confidence in the electoral system and ensuring wider citizens’ participation in future elections.
