By Peace Erewunmi

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 commission also unveiled a new online self-service voter registration portal designed to simplify the registration process, particularly for first-time voters.

INEC announced that the extension followed requests from political parties, civil society organisations, youth groups, and members of the public who appealed for more time to enable eligible citizens to participate in the exercise. According to the commission, the decision reflects its commitment to ensuring that no qualified Nigerian is denied the opportunity to register as a voter.

As part of the initiative, the electoral body introduced an online self-service registration platform that allows first-time voters to begin the registration process remotely. Through the portal, applicants can submit their personal information online before visiting a designated INEC registration centre for biometric data capture and verification.

The commission explained that the digital platform is intended to reduce congestion at registration centres, improve efficiency, shorten waiting times, and make voter registration more convenient for Nigerians, especially young people and those living in urban areas.

INEC also clarified that the online registration process does not replace the mandatory physical appearance required for biometric capture. Applicants must still visit an approved registration centre to complete fingerprinting, facial capture, and other verification procedures before they can be added to the national register of voters.

In addition to new voter registration, the commission said the exercise covers requests for voter transfer, replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), correction of personal information, and updates to voter records.

The commission urged eligible Nigerians who are yet to register to take advantage of the extension, emphasizing that voter registration remains a constitutional requirement for participation in elections. It also encouraged citizens to avoid multiple registrations, warning that double registration is an electoral offence punishable under the law.

INEC assured the public that adequate arrangements have been made at registration centres across the country to accommodate the expected increase in turnout during the extension period. The commission said it would continue working with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that the exercise remains peaceful, transparent, and accessible.

Political observers have welcomed the extension, noting that increased voter registration could strengthen democratic participation and improve voter inclusion ahead of future elections. Civil society groups have also urged Nigerians, particularly first-time voters, to take advantage of the additional two weeks to complete their registration.

The commission reiterated its commitment to conducting credible elections through continuous improvements in voter registration, technology, and electoral administration, while encouraging all eligible citizens to actively participate in the democratic process by registering before the new deadline.