(INEC. Photo Credit; Punch News)
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 improve accessibility, service delivery, and citizens’ participation in the electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Nasarawa State disclosed this at a news briefing on Tuesday in Lafia, the state capital, stating that the platform would become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration portal, where eligible citizens can access step-by-step registration guidelines.
He explained that the platform would allow first-time voters to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without the need to physically visit any INEC office.
According to him, the platform incorporates robust identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility, integrity, and accuracy of the National Register of Voters, describing the initiative as consistent with the Commission’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and improved service delivery.
He, however, noted that eligible voters who had already begun the physical registration process, those transferring their voting points, or those replacing stolen or defaced Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) would still need to visit INEC registration centres in person.
The REC also announced that the Commission had approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise, disclosing that the third and final phase, originally scheduled to end on July 10, would now close on July 26.
He explained that the extension followed a review of the nationwide exercise and feedback received from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders, adding that it was aimed at providing eligible Nigerians who are yet to register an additional opportunity to do so ahead of future electoral activities.
He said this reflects 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.
The REC recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, noting that the first and second phases recorded a significant number of registrants across Nasarawa State, including persons living with disabilities.
He urged eligible residents of the state who have yet to register to take advantage of both the extension and the newly introduced technology-driven registration platform.
He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, transparent, and accessible voter registration process through the deployment of technology to enhance citizens’ experience, and expressed appreciation to the media, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their continued support in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
