The Independent National Electoral Commission has officially commenced its Continuous Voter Registration exercise across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria ahead of 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan announced the exercise Monday in Abuja, stating that registration is crucial for first-time voters who have turned 18, those who lost Permanent Voter Cards, and citizens who relocated and need to transfer polling units.
According to INEC, over 2.5 million Nigerians have already pre-registered online since August, but must complete physical capture at designated centers. The commission said registration will run Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm at INEC local government offices and designated ward centers in Lagos, Kano, Rivers, FCT and other states.
The electoral body emphasized there will be no extension close to elections and urged youths, students, market women and artisans to take advantage now. INEC also introduced new BVAS machines for faster capture and promised improved security for officials in North East and South East regions.
Political analysts say early registration will determine 2027 turnout. Parties including APC, PDP, Labour Party and ADC are already mobilizing supporters to register in large numbers, especially in swing states like Lagos, Kaduna, Plateau and Oyo State.
Civil society groups like Yiaga Africa and Situation Room have commended INEC but called for more awareness in rural areas and for people with disabilities. Many Nigerians on X and Facebook are sharing experiences from registration centers, with some complaining of slow network and long queues daily.
INEC says collection of old PVCs is also ongoing simultaneously nationwide. The commission warned against double registration and vote buying, saying offenders will be prosecuted. The exercise is free and INEC said no Nigerian should pay any official to register.
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