By John Umeh
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced that nationwide voter registration will commence on August 18, 2025, as part of its strategic preparations for the 2027 general elections. The commission made the announcement during a press briefing at its headquarters in Abuja on Monday, calling on all eligible Nigerians to take advantage of the exercise to participate in the democratic process.
According to INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the voter registration exercise will be comprehensive, inclusive, and continuous, with provisions made for both first-time voters and those who need to update or replace their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The exercise will also cater to individuals who have changed their residence, ensuring that all eligible citizens are registered in the correct electoral wards.
Registration Modalities and Timeline
The registration process, which will run for several months, is expected to take place in all 774 local government areas of the country. INEC plans to deploy registration centers at strategic locations including government institutions, marketplaces, and other public venues to increase accessibility.
“Starting August 18, 2025, we will commence a nationwide voter registration that will be open, transparent, and technology-driven,” said Professor Yakubu. “We encourage every Nigerian who has attained the age of 18 or who has not registered before to take advantage of this opportunity.”
He added that mobile registration teams will be dispatched to remote and underserved communities to ensure no one is disenfranchised due to geography or physical barriers. Online pre-registration services will also be reintroduced to ease congestion at physical centers and reduce wait times.
INEC’s Commitment to a Credible 2027 Election
The voter registration exercise is one of several early steps being taken by the commission to ensure a free, fair, and credible election in 2027. INEC emphasized its commitment to electoral transparency and noted that the use of Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic transmission of results will be sustained and improved.
In preparation, the commission is collaborating with civil society organizations, community leaders, religious bodies, and youth groups to mobilize voter awareness campaigns. These initiatives are aimed at increasing turnout and participation, particularly among the youth and marginalized groups.
Citizens Encouraged to Participate
INEC has urged political parties, media, and all stakeholders in the electoral process to support the voter registration drive by sensitizing the public and encouraging eligible citizens to participate. The commission also warned against multiple registrations and fraudulent practices, stressing that offenders will be prosecuted.
“Voter registration is the first step in exercising your right to choose your leaders. If you don’t register, you can’t vote, and if you don’t vote, you forfeit your voice in shaping the future of Nigeria,” Yakubu concluded.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, INEC’s early kick-off of the registration process is being widely viewed as a proactive move to reduce the last-minute rush and administrative bottlenecks that have plagued previous elections.
What You Need to Register
To register, citizens must present:
-
A valid form of identification (such as a National Identity Card or international passport),
-
Proof of age (18+),
-
And any supporting documents in case of change of address or damaged/missing PVCs.
INEC has pledged to release detailed information on registration centers and guidelines ahead of the August 18 kickoff. Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed and prepare accordingly.
