INEC Closes Second Phase of Continuous Voter Registration with 3.7 Million Registrations
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially concluded the second phase of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, achieving a significant milestone with a total of 3,748,704 completed registrations across Nigeria. This figure, detailed in the Commission's weekly update for week 14 of the second phase, includes both online pre-registrations and in-person completions at designated centers nationwide, highlighting sustained public engagement as the country prepares for the 2027 general election.
Breakdown of Registration Figures and Verification Process
A detailed breakdown reveals that 2,259,288 Nigerians successfully completed their registration through the online pre-registration portal, while 1,489,416 finalized their registration physically at INEC centers. However, INEC has emphasized that these numbers are preliminary and subject to further verification to ensure accuracy and integrity. Following the closure of the registration phase, the Commission has now shifted its focus to the display of the Register of Voters for Claims and Objections, a critical step aimed at enhancing the credibility of the voter register.
Upcoming Display and Verification Exercise
The display exercise is scheduled to take place at designated centers nationwide from April 20 to April 26, 2026. This period provides an opportunity for citizens who registered during the second phase to verify their details and raise objections where necessary. INEC has urged all registrants to actively participate in this window to confirm the accuracy of their information and assist in identifying ineligible entries, such as duplicate registrations, deceased persons, and non-citizens, thereby contributing to a cleaner electoral roll.
Phased CVR Schedule and Future Plans
INEC recalled that the CVR exercise is being conducted in phases, with the first phase held from August 18 to December 10, 2025, and the second phase running from January 5 to April 17, 2026. In alignment with its previously released timetable, the third phase of the CVR will resume on May 4 and continue until August 17, 2026, offering another opportunity for eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to do so. This will be followed by a third round of the display of the register for claims and objections from August 24 to August 30, 2026.
Commitment to Electoral Integrity
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a clean and credible voter register, which it described as central to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. By ensuring thorough verification processes and encouraging public participation, INEC aims to bolster trust in the electoral system ahead of the 2027 polls, reinforcing Nigeria's democratic foundations through meticulous preparation and oversight.
