The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the resumption of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise, reopening the process for eligible Nigerians in what it described as the third and final phase ahead of the 2027 general election.
INEC said the final phase of the voter registration exercise will begin on Monday, May 11, 2026, and end on Friday, July 10, giving fresh registrants, voters seeking transfers, and those needing Permanent Voter Card replacements another opportunity to update their electoral records.
The announcement, contained in a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of the Commission’s Information and Voter Education Committee, comes weeks after INEC suspended the second phase of the exercise on April 17.
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At the time, the commission said the suspension was necessary to allow for a clean-up of the voters’ register after the publication of preliminary records for claims and objections by registrants.
INEC had concluded the second phase of the exercise with over 3.7 million completed registrations nationwide, reflecting strong public participation as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually intensify.
The electoral body said the temporary suspension formed part of its statutory responsibility to verify entries, remove duplicate registrations and address objections raised by members of the public to strengthen the integrity of the national voters’ register.
The resumption now marks what may be the final major voter registration window before the country moves fully into the election preparation cycle.
The commission said Nigerians who have attained the age of 18 and are yet to register should take advantage of the opportunity.
It added that already registered voters who wish to transfer their polling units, replace lost or damaged PVCs, or correct personal information can do so through its dedicated online portal or at INEC offices nationwide.
The voter registration exercise remains one of the most important pre-election processes, as it determines who will be eligible to vote in the next general election.
Political observers say the resumed exercise is particularly important because political activities ahead of 2027 are already gathering momentum.
The registration process is often seen as an early indicator of voter interest, especially among young Nigerians and first-time voters.
INEC also disclosed that after the registration closes on July 10, the provisional register will be displayed for public scrutiny from July 23 to July 29 for claims and objections.
The process allows citizens to verify their names, challenge suspicious entries and report inaccuracies.
Electoral experts have consistently described this stage as critical to reducing double registration, underage registration and data inconsistencies.
The resumption also comes amid growing public interest in electoral participation following major political realignments and coalition talks ahead of 2027.
For many Nigerians who missed the earlier phases, this may be the final opportunity to register before the next general election.
INEC has assured that all arrangements have been concluded for a smooth exercise nationwide.
The commission urged eligible citizens to participate, stressing that credible elections begin with a credible voter register.
As the political atmosphere gradually builds toward 2027, the final phase of voter registration may become one of the most important electoral exercises in the months ahead.
