As part of preparations for the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise across Nigeria.
This disclosure was made by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of INEC in Benue State, Professor Samuel Egwu, during a press briefing held in his office in Makurdi on Monday.
Professor Egwu stated that the exercise will officially kick off on August 18, 2025, and will be conducted in all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He emphasized that the voter registration initiative is mandated by the Nigerian Constitution, which ensures that the national voter register remains inclusive, allowing citizens who have reached the age of 18 since the last election to be eligible to vote.
According to him, the registration will begin online via INEC’s website at http://cvr.inecnigeria.org, allowing eligible voters to commence the process digitally.
“This is preparatory to in-person registration,” Professor Egwu explained, noting that physical registration will commence on August 25, 2025, at all INEC area offices and designated centers nationwide, from Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
The REC detailed that the upcoming CVR will focus on:
- Individuals who have turned 18 after the 2023 general elections.
- Nigerians who were previously unable to register due to being abroad, in incarceration, or uninterested.
- Voters requiring card replacements due to loss (caused by crises, theft, or negligence).
- Individuals needing corrections on their voter information.
- Those relocating within or across states, wards, or polling units.
He firmly reiterated that the registration exercise is entirely free, warning the public to report any INEC official demanding payment or favors for voter services.
For now, the CVR will take place at INEC’s area offices in local government areas until further notice regarding the expansion of registration centers.
Professor Egwu underscored the importance of early participation, stressing that the CVR is foundational to a successful election process, as voter registration is the gateway to exercising one’s democratic rights.
“We encourage all eligible citizens to seize this opportunity early and avoid the last-minute rush, which usually comes with unnecessary stress and difficulties,” he advised.
INEC continues to commit to transparency and efficiency as the nation gears up for the 2027 elections, reinforcing its mission to ensure that every eligible Nigerian has the opportunity to vote.
