By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the commencement of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise nationwide, with online registration scheduled to begin on Monday, August 18, 2025, while physical, in-person registration at designated centres will commence a week later on Monday, August 25, 2025.
This development was disclosed by the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during a consultative meeting with political party leaders and stakeholders in Abuja. According to the Commission, the CVR exercise is in preparation for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and to ensure that all eligible Nigerians have the opportunity to register, update their information, or replace lost or defaced voter cards.
INEC also confirmed that the online component of the registration can be accessed via its official registration portal, where applicants will be able to submit their basic details before booking appointments for biometric capture at their nearest INEC centres. The Commission emphasized that this hybrid approach is aimed at reducing overcrowding and ensuring a smoother registration process.
“Online registration will commence nationwide on August 18, 2025, while physical registration at INEC offices and centres will begin on August 25,” Professor Yakubu stated. “This process will be open to Nigerians who have attained the age of 18, those who have never registered before, and those seeking to update or correct their registration details.”
In addition to new registrations, the CVR will also accommodate:
Requests for replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs)
Transfers of registration from one location to another
Correction of personal details, such as name or date of birth
INEC urged political parties, civil society organisations, and the media to support massive public enlightenment campaigns to encourage citizens to participate early and avoid last-minute rushes.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency and inclusiveness in the electoral process, assuring Nigerians that adequate logistics and security measures are being put in place to ensure a seamless CVR exercise across all 36 states and the FCT.
