The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has announced that the third and final phase of its nationwide Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, will commence on May 11, 2026, as it ramps up preparations for the 2027 general elections. The commission said the phase will be the last opportunity for eligible Nigerians to register, transfer, or update their voter information before the next polls.
INEC Chairman disclosed that the exercise will run concurrently across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with both online and in-person registration options available. He urged citizens who turned 18 after the second phase, as well as those who have relocated or lost their Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, to take advantage of the window. “This is the final stretch. After May 11, there will be no further extension,” he stated during a briefing in Abuja.
The commission reported that over three million Nigerians successfully registered during the second phase, which concluded earlier this year. Officials said the figure reflects growing civic awareness, particularly among youths and first-time voters. INEC also confirmed that voter education campaigns will be intensified nationwide to reduce invalid registrations and ensure accurate data capture ahead of the polls.
To improve efficiency, INEC said it has deployed additional biometric registration devices and trained more personnel for the final phase. The commission also plans to collaborate with civil society groups, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to mobilize eligible voters in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Special attention will be given to persons with disabilities to ensure inclusive participation.
Political parties have welcomed the announcement but called on INEC to guarantee transparency and security throughout the process. Several party leaders stressed that a credible voter register is the foundation of a free and fair election, urging the commission to publish the updated register for public scrutiny once the exercise concludes. Security agencies have also been put on alert to prevent disruptions at registration centers.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, INEC emphasized that the integrity of the voter roll will determine public confidence in the outcome. The commission appealed to Nigerians to register only once, warning that multiple registrations remain an electoral offense punishable by law. It reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, transparent, and technology-driven electoral process.