‎By Oscar Chukwugekwu

‎The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced a self-service online voter registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to improve accessibility, service delivery and citizens’ participation in the electoral process.

‎The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Nasarawa State, Mallam Mohammed Abubakar-Sadiq, disclosed this at a news briefing on Tuesday in Lafia, the state capital.

‎Abubakar-Sadiq said the platform would become operational on Wednesday, July 8, through the Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration portal, where eligible citizens could access step-by-step registration guidelines.

‎He said the platform would enable first-time voters to initiate and complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without physically visiting any INEC office.

‎According to him, the platform incorporates robust identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks to safeguard the credibility, integrity and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

‎The REC said the initiative was in line with the Commission’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and improved service delivery.

‎He, however, said eligible voters who had begun the physical registration process, were transferring their voting points or replacing stolen or defaced Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) should visit INEC registration centres.

‎He also announced that the Commission had approved a two-week extension of the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

‎Abubakar-Sadiq said the third and final phase of the exercise, initially scheduled to end on July 10, would now close on July 26.

‎He said the extension followed a review of the nationwide exercise and feedback from INEC state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other critical stakeholders.

‎“The extension is to provide an additional opportunity for eligible Nigerians who are yet to register as voters to do so ahead of future electoral activities.

‎“It underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the National Register of Voters,” he said.

‎The REC recalled that the nationwide CVR exercise commenced on Aug. 18, 2025, adding that the first and second phases recorded a significant number of registrants across Nasarawa State, including persons living with disabilities (PLWDs).

‎He urged eligible residents of the state who had yet to register to take advantage of both the extension and the newly introduced technology-driven registration platform.

‎Abubakar-Sadiq reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, transparent and accessible voter registration process through the deployment of technology to improve citizens’ experience.

‎He also appreciated the media, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.