By Folorunso Alagbede, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that over 505,906 Nigerians have completed their online pre-registration for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise within the first five days of its resumption.
The Chairman of the Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this in Abuja on Friday 22nd August, 2025, at the official flag-off of nationwide sensitization activities for the CVR.
Yakubu, who was represented at the event by National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu described the impressive response as a clear indication that Nigerians remain eager to participate in the democratic process.
According to him, “As at midnight of Thursday, 22nd of August, 2025, over 505,906 citizens have pre-registered since the portal opened five days ago. “For us, this is a testament that Nigerians believe in our democracy and the efforts of the Commission to further strengthen the electoral process,” he said.
The Chairman explained that the exercise, which commenced with online pre-registration on Monday, 18th August 2025, will move into its physical phase from Monday, 25th August 2025.
He stressed that as from that date, citizens who pre-registered online as well as those registering afresh will be able to complete the process at INEC Local Government and State Offices nationwide, where their biometrics will be captured.
As part of efforts to mobilise citizens, INEC also flagged off a sensitisation campaign, stressing that voter registration is the gateway to meaningful participation in elections. The sensitisation took the form of a colourful roadshow organised by the Voter Education and Publicity Department, with the train moving from the INEC Headquarters in Maitama, distributing flyers and engaging Nigerians from Maitama through Banex Plaza in Wuse and down to the bustling Wuse Market. Similar flag-offs and sensitisation activities will be replicated across the states of the federation.
Professor Yakubu urged all eligible citizens, especially young Nigerians, those who have just turned 18, and those who need to update or transfer their voter records, to take advantage of the exercise.
“Your Permanent Voter Card (PVC) is key to making your voice heard,” he said, while calling on political parties, civil society organizations, the media and stakeholders to join hands with the Commission in raising awareness.
The CVR exercise will run across 811 centers nationwide, including all 774 Local Government offices and State offices, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Mondays to Fridays.
Through its dedicated portal www.cvr.inecnigeria.org, citizens can pre-register, confirm their PVC status, locate registration centers, transfer registration, request replacement of lost or damaged PVCs, and correct personal information.
The Commission assured Nigerians that special provisions have been made to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
Professor Yakubu appealed for collective support, adding that voter registration is a shared responsibility of all citizens.
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