By Hosea Parah

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the resumption of Phase III of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, as part of efforts to broaden voter inclusion ahead of upcoming elections.

In a memo dated May 4, 2026, the Commission, through its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, directed Resident Electoral Commissioners across the country to begin the next phase of the registration process. The exercise will feature both online and physical (in-person) registration, maintaining the rotational framework adopted during Phase II.

INEC disclosed that Phase III will run until July 10, 2026, in accordance with its approved timeline, with a detailed schedule already circulated to guide operations nationwide.

The Commission said the continuation of the CVR exercise underscores its commitment to ensuring that all eligible Nigerians have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. It also urged electoral officials to strictly comply with the established guidelines to guarantee a seamless and efficient exercise.

The CVR exercise is a key component of Nigeria’s electoral system, allowing new voters to register while also enabling existing voters to update their details in the national database.

With the commencement of this phase, INEC aims to further enhance the credibility, inclusiveness, and transparency of elections across the country.