2027 Elections: INEC Sets August 18 Start Date for Continuous Voter Registration, Urges Early Participation
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that in preparation for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will begin nationwide on August 18, 2025, urging early participation.
OTN News further reports that the announcement was made by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Benue State, Professor Sam Egwu, during a press briefing on earlier this week in Makurdi.
Speaking at the gathering, he revealed that the CVR process will be conducted in two main phases, combining online and physical registration to ensure wider accessibility and participation.
According to him, Phase 1: Online pre-registration via the INEC official portal – begins August 18, 2025. Phase 2: In-person registration at INEC Area Offices and designated centres – begins August 25, 2025. Registration at physical locations will take place Mondays to Fridays, between 9:00am and 3:00pm.
Speaking on who can register, he said, the CVR is open to Nigerians who meet any of the following criteria: Turned 18 since the last general election in 2023; Missed previous registration due to absence, imprisonment, or other valid reasons; Need to replace lost, stolen, or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Wish to transfer to a new polling unit or correct personal details such as names or addresses.
Prof. Egwu stressed the importance of inclusivity in the electoral process, stating, “This exercise is to ensure that no eligible Nigerian is left out of the electoral process.”
However, INEC reiterated that voter registration is completely free and warned citizens not to offer money or gifts to registration officials. The commission also cautioned its staff and agents against soliciting bribes.
“No Nigerian is expected to pay to be registered. Registration is free, and those who solicit bribes will face legal consequences,” Egwu warned.
Speaking on the last registration, the commission recalled that the last registration cycle before the 2023 elections was marred by overcrowding, long queues, and technical issues, which resulted in many first-time voters being unable to register.
Egwu disclosed that special arrangements are being made for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), especially in Benue State and other conflict-affected areas.
The commission said it is partnering with security agencies and civil society organisations to monitor the exercise and report any irregularities.
Subsequently, INEC advised eligible Nigerians to begin the process early and not wait until the last minute.
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