INEC Registers 1.57 Million Nigerians in Seven Weeks of CVR Exercise

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that it has successfully registered 1.57 million new voters within the first seven weeks of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

The commission, in a statement, attributed the impressive turnout to the renewed interest of Nigerians in the country's electoral process, particularly among young people who are eager to participate in shaping the country's political future through their votes.

INEC noted that the figure represents a significant milestone in the commission's efforts to expand the country's voter register, deepen democratic participation, and ensure that as many eligible Nigerians as possible are captured ahead of the next general elections.

According to the commission, the 1.57 million new registrants cut across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reflecting the nationwide reach of the CVR exercise.

INEC further explained that the registration figures include first-time voters, applicants seeking the transfer of their voter registration, those requesting the replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and individuals making updates to their existing voter information.

The commission noted that the high turnout of young people during the registration exercise underscores the growing political consciousness among the youth demographic, which is expected to play a significant role in the 2027 general elections.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the CVR exercise is conducted in a transparent, accessible, and credible manner, with all eligible Nigerians given the opportunity to be registered as voters.

The commission also commended its staff, ad hoc personnel, and stakeholders for their dedication to the successful implementation of the exercise, urging them to sustain the tempo throughout the period of the registration.

INEC encouraged Nigerians who are yet to register or update their voter details to take advantage of the ongoing exercise, stressing that participation in the electoral process is a fundamental right and responsibility of every eligible citizen.

The commission also reiterated that the CVR exercise is being conducted at all its registration centres across the country, including state and local government offices, as well as designated public spaces in various communities.

INEC further explained that it has introduced various measures aimed at making the registration process more accessible, efficient, and citizen-friendly, including the deployment of online pre-registration platforms that allow applicants to begin the process from the comfort of their homes.

According to the commission, eligible Nigerians can start their registration process online through the INEC Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) portal or visit a registration centre to complete the biometric capture and other necessary procedures.

INEC stressed that the success of the country's electoral process depends, to a large extent, on the participation of eligible Nigerians as voters, urging all citizens to embrace the opportunity to register, vote, and shape the future of the country.

The commission also called on political parties, civil society organisations, the media, and other stakeholders to support the CVR exercise by promoting voter education, awareness, and participation across the country.

It assured Nigerians of its commitment to delivering credible elections in 2027, stressing that voter registration remains a critical foundation upon which the credibility of the electoral process is built.

The commission also warned against any form of identity fraud, multiple registrations, or other unlawful activities during the CVR exercise, stressing that violators would face the full weight of the law.

INEC has continued to engage stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community-based organisations, to ensure that the CVR exercise is conducted in a secure, peaceful, and orderly manner.

The commission has also rolled out various measures to ensure that vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and residents in rural and underserved communities, are not left behind in the registration process.

INEC reiterated its commitment to inclusive electoral participation, stressing that the country's democracy can only be strengthened when every eligible Nigerian, regardless of background or location, has the opportunity to register and vote.

The development comes amid heightened political activities across the country, with political parties, candidates, and other stakeholders intensifying preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The 2027 elections are expected to be one of the most consequential in the country's recent history, with the political landscape shaped by emerging coalitions, defections, court rulings, and ongoing debates over reforms to the electoral system.

Stakeholders have continued to call for sustained engagement, transparency, and credibility in INEC's operations, stressing that the commission's ability to deliver free, fair, and credible elections will be central to the legitimacy of the next government and the strength of the country's democracy.

INEC has, in recent times, introduced various reforms aimed at improving the credibility of the electoral process, including the deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), and other innovations designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust.

The commission has continued to engage with the National Assembly, civil society organisations, political parties, and other stakeholders on further reforms to strengthen the country's electoral framework and address lingering issues affecting the integrity of elections.

It also welcomed the growing involvement of citizens in the electoral process, urging Nigerians to continue to take ownership of the country's democracy through active participation in voter registration, election monitoring, and civic engagement.

INEC encouraged Nigerians to consult its official website and verified social media platforms for accurate information about the CVR exercise, registration centres, and other relevant electoral updates.

The commission expressed optimism that the high turnout recorded so far in the CVR exercise would translate into stronger civic engagement and higher voter turnout during the 2027 general elections, with significant implications for the country's democratic development.

It also urged Nigerians to use the opportunity provided by the registration exercise to make their voices heard in the country's political process, stressing that every vote counts in shaping the future of the nation.