INEC Commences In-Person Voter Registration Nationwide Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially commenced the physical phase of its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise across Nigeria.

The exercise, which began on Monday, August 25, comes a week after the commission launched its online pre-registration portal on August 18. 

The initiative marks a key milestone in preparations for the 2027 general elections, providing eligible citizens with the opportunity to secure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Registration opens nationwide

According to INEC, the in-person registration will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, at designated centres across the country.

In a public notice shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, the commission urged Nigerians to take advantage of the exercise. 

“The window is open for every qualified citizen to participate. 

"Those who started the process online should now visit the nearest INEC state or local government office to complete their registration,” the statement read.

The electoral body also provided a link to the full list of registration centres and dedicated telephone lines for enquiries.

Importance of early participation

INEC officials emphasised that early participation would reduce last-minute rushes and ensure more Nigerians are included in the voters’ roll. 

“We encourage citizens not to delay. Getting registered now helps avoid the pressure that usually comes close to election time,” an INEC source explained.

The CVR process covers fresh registrations, transfers, and replacements of lost or damaged voter cards, ensuring no eligible Nigerian is left out of the democratic process.

Building momentum for 2027

With the 2027 general elections fast approaching, the commission has intensified voter education campaigns to boost participation. Analysts note that a credible register of voters is the foundation of free and fair elections.

INEC’s move signals the beginning of an intensive election cycle, as political parties, civic groups, and citizens brace for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most competitive polls.