The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the third phase of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by an additional 16 days, shifting the closing date from July 10 to July 26, 2026, while also approving the deployment of a full online voter registration platform.
The decision was contained in a circular dated July 3, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Dr. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, following the Commission’s meeting held on July 2.
According to the circular, the extension will run from July 11 to July 26, covering weekends and public holidays to enable more eligible Nigerians to register as voters ahead of future elections.
In a major innovation, INEC also approved the deployment of a full online voter registration system, allowing prospective registrants to begin and complete the registration process electronically without visiting any Continuous Voter Registration centre.
The Commission said the initiative is aimed at making voter registration more accessible and convenient for Nigerians.
To ensure the smooth implementation of the extension, INEC said all necessary logistics have been approved, including special allowances for Registration Officers who will work during weekends throughout the extension period.
Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country have been directed to take note of the new arrangements and ensure full compliance.
The Commission recalled that the current phase of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise commenced on August 18, 2025, and was initially scheduled to conclude on July 10, 2026 before the latest extension.
The extension is expected to provide another opportunity for millions of eligible Nigerians who are yet to register, transfer their registration, or update their voter records before the exercise finally closes on July 26, 2026.
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