By Emeka Chiaghanam
The Independent National
Electoral Commission (INEC), has announced
the resumption of the third and final phase of its nationwide Continuous Voter
Registration exercise, giving millions of eligible Nigerians another opportunity
to secure their place in the country’s democratic process.
According to a press statement
issued by the Commission, the exercise officially resumes on Monday, 11 May
2026, and will run until Friday, 10 July 2026.
The electoral body explained
that the second phase of the registration was suspended on 17 April 2026 to
enable officials clean up the voters’ register following the publication of
names for claims and objections by registrants.
With the final phase now set to
begin, INEC urged Nigerians who have attained the age of 18, as well as those
who missed earlier registration periods, to take advantage of the opportunity
to register.
The Commission also encouraged
already registered voters who wish to transfer their voter registration,
replace missing or damaged Permanent Voter Cards, or correct errors in their
biodata to use the Commission’s online portal or visit INEC offices across the
country.
INEC said the exercise is part
of its ongoing commitment to ensuring that every eligible citizen has the
chance to participate in future elections.
The Commission further
disclosed that the voters’ register will be displayed for public scrutiny from
Thursday, 23 July to Wednesday, 29 July 2026. During this period, Nigerians
will be allowed to raise objections, verify details and help identify
irregularities in the register.
INEC described the process as
an important legal and democratic step aimed at strengthening the credibility,
accuracy and completeness of the national voters’ register.
Political observers say the
final phase of the registration exercise comes at a crucial period as
preparations gradually gather pace ahead of future electoral activities across
the country.
For many young Nigerians who
recently turned 18, the exercise represents more than just registration. It is
an opportunity to have a voice in deciding the direction of leadership and
governance in the country.
The Commission reassured
citizens that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a
smooth and hitch-free exercise nationwide.
INEC also appealed to Nigerians
to actively participate in the process and avoid waiting until the final days
before registering.
The statement, signed by
Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education
Committee, stressed that citizens have a shared responsibility in protecting
and strengthening democracy through active participation in the electoral
process.
Across many communities, the
announcement is expected to renew public interest in voter participation,
especially among first-time voters and those seeking to update their
registration details.
As the countdown begins,
Nigerians are being reminded that the right to vote starts with registration,
and that every valid voter card remains a powerful tool in shaping the nation’s
future.
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