The Independent National Electoral Commission has launched a new online self-service portal that enables eligible Nigerians to register for a Permanent Voter’s Card without visiting an INEC office, marking a major step in the commission’s efforts to modernise the country’s electoral process and improve access to voter registration services.
The digital platform, introduced as part of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise, allows eligible citizens to carry out a wide range of voter-related services from the convenience of their mobile phones or other internet-enabled devices.
With the introduction of the portal, first-time voters can complete their registration process online, including biometric capture, while existing voters can transfer their voting location, update personal information and apply for the replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter’s Cards.
The commission said the initiative is aimed at making voter registration faster, more accessible and more efficient, while reducing the need for physical visits to INEC offices across the country.
The launch comes shortly after INEC announced a two-week extension of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise. The exercise, originally scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now continue until July 24, 2026, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.
The extension followed increased public demand for additional time as many prospective voters sought to take advantage of the registration exercise.
According to the commission, the online portal forms part of broader electoral reforms designed to leverage technology in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process and encouraging wider participation in elections.
INEC noted that the digital platform would significantly ease the registration process by allowing citizens to initiate and complete eligible services remotely, thereby reducing overcrowding at registration centres and improving overall service delivery.
Under the new system, Nigerians who have attained the constitutional voting age and are eligible to vote can complete their registration through the INEC Self-Service Continuous Voter Registration Portal using a smartphone, tablet or computer with internet access.
To begin the process, applicants are required to visit the portal and create a personal account using a valid email address and phone number. After verifying their account, they can select the appropriate service, including new voter registration, transfer of voting location, update of personal details or replacement of a lost or damaged voter card.
First-time registrants are expected to provide accurate personal information such as their full name, date of birth, residential address and other required identification details before proceeding to the biometric capture stage.
The portal enables applicants to capture their facial biometrics and complete other required verification procedures using compatible mobile devices, eliminating the need for immediate physical attendance at an INEC office.
Existing registered voters who have relocated to another part of the country can also use the platform to request a transfer of their voting location, ensuring they can vote at polling units closer to their new place of residence.
Similarly, voters whose personal information has changed due to marriage or other legitimate reasons can update their records through the portal.
The commission also provides an option for the replacement of Permanent Voter’s Cards that have been lost, damaged or defaced, allowing affected voters to request new cards without undergoing an entirely new registration process.
INEC advised applicants to ensure that all information provided during registration is accurate, warning that false declarations or multiple registrations remain electoral offences punishable under Nigerian law.
The commission further urged Nigerians to complete their registration before the July 24 deadline to avoid missing the opportunity to participate in upcoming elections.
Electoral observers and civic groups have welcomed the introduction of the self-service platform, describing it as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s electoral system.
They noted that by reducing dependence on physical registration centres, the platform could help increase voter participation, particularly among young people, persons living in remote areas and Nigerians with demanding work schedules.
Analysts also believe the initiative could improve the efficiency of voter registration while reducing administrative bottlenecks often associated with the traditional registration process.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to deploying technology to improve electoral transparency, accessibility and public confidence in the democratic process.
The commission encouraged all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to take advantage of the online portal and the extended registration period, stressing that the right to vote begins with obtaining a valid Permanent Voter’s Card.
With the launch of the self-service portal and the extension of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise, INEC hopes to expand the nation’s voter register and ensure that more Nigerians are equipped to exercise their constitutional right to vote in future elections.
