WorldStage Newsonline– Nigeria’s voter registration drive has recorded a strong start, with more than 500,000 citizens completing online pre-registration in just five days, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Commission announced that a total of 505,906 Nigerians had used its online platform to begin the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process, signaling high public interest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the official flag-off of INEC’s nationwide sensitisation campaign in Abuja, Chairman of the Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu—represented by National Commissioner Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu—hailed the early turnout as proof of Nigerians’ faith in the country’s democracy.
“For us, this is a testament that Nigerians believe in our democracy and in the efforts of the Commission to strengthen the electoral process,” Yakubu said.
The CVR exercise, which opened with online registration on August 18, will enter its physical phase on Monday, August 25. At that stage, applicants who pre-registered online, as well as new registrants, will be able to complete their enrolment by capturing their biometrics at INEC offices across all local government areas and state headquarters.
To drive participation, INEC has also launched a sensitisation campaign featuring colourful roadshows in Abuja. The awareness drive moved from the Commission’s headquarters through Maitama, Banex Plaza, and down to Wuse Market, distributing flyers and engaging residents. Similar activities are expected to take place across the 36 states and the FCT.
Yakubu called on young Nigerians, first-time voters, and those needing to transfer or update their details to seize the opportunity. He stressed that the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) remains the only tool that empowers citizens to shape leadership through the ballot.
The CVR exercise will take place across 811 centres nationwide, covering all 774 local government offices, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. Through INEC’s dedicated portal (www.cvr.inecnigeria.org), citizens can also confirm their registration status, locate centres, request replacements of lost PVCs, or correct personal details.
INEC assured that special arrangements have been made to accommodate persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
The Chairman appealed for collective support from political parties, civil society groups, the media, and community stakeholders to expand voter education, saying voter registration is a “shared responsibility” that underpins Nigeria’s democracy.
