The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will officially end today, Sunday, July 26, 2026, urging eligible Nigerians yet to register to do so before the deadline.

INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, stated that there will be no extension of the exercise despite calls from some opposition parties. He explained that the commission must conclude registration to begin critical post-registration processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, once registration closes, INEC’s technical teams will commence data processing, including the use of the Automated Biometric Identification System to identify and eliminate multiple registrations. The cleaned provisional voters’ register will then be published for claims and objections, allowing Nigerians to verify their details or report discrepancies.

Haruna noted that the final number of newly registered voters will only be determined after the biometric verification and review process. This figure will be added to the existing voter base of over 93 million.

He emphasized that setting a firm deadline is necessary to ensure the production of a credible and accurate voters’ register, which will later be shared with political parties in preparation for the elections.

Also speaking, Dayo Oketola said the decision aligns with constitutional provisions and is essential for timely election planning. He dismissed concerns about system overload or mass disenfranchisement, noting that INEC had implemented widespread voter education campaigns and provided multiple registration channels, including online platforms and physical centers across all 774 local government areas.

INEC maintained that while it recognizes concerns about unregistered citizens, it can only account for those who presented themselves within the stipulated timeframe.

The commission reiterated that closing the registration exercise now is crucial to allow adequate preparation for a smooth and credible 2027 general election.