By Ejire Folakunmi
Nigerians across the country are racing to complete their voter registration as the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) winds down on April 17.
The ongoing exercise, which began on January 5, has recorded over 3.44 million completed registrations so far. Data from the commission shows strong participation from young people aged 18 to 34, who account for about 68 per cent of registrants, while women make up roughly 56 per cent.
Despite initial concerns, many applicants have shared positive experiences, noting that physical registration at local centres often takes less than an hour after completing the online pre-registration. However, some users reported technical challenges, including rejected photographs and delays in receiving support online.
INEC has consistently emphasised the importance of completing both stages of the process, online pre-registration followed by in-person biometric capture, warning that only those with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will be eligible to vote in the 2027 general elections.
On X, the approaching deadline has triggered a mix of urgency and clarification. While some users initially believed registration would end entirely this week, others pointed out that the April 17 date marks only the conclusion of phase two.
“PVC registration doesn’t end this Friday… phase three starts May 4 until the August deadline,” one user clarified.
INEC has also urged eligible Nigerians, especially those who recently turned 18 or need to transfer their registration, to act quickly before the current phase closes.
Civic advocates have taken to social media to mobilise participation, encouraging citizens to assist others in completing the process.
“Stop complaining online… help others register,” one campaign message read, highlighting grassroots efforts to boost voter turnout.
The electoral body has scheduled subsequent phases of the CVR exercise to continue through August 2026, giving more Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of the next election cycle.
