The Independent National Electoral Commission in Lagos says it will move its Continuous Voter Registration from local government offices to wards on a rotational basis ahead of the 2027 elections.
Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof Ayobami Salami, told stakeholders at a meeting on the second phase of the CVR that the plan is to reduce voter apathy and make registration easier for eligible residents. He said CVR remains one of INEC’s most important duties because it allows Nigerians to register, transfer their registration, correct details and replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards.
Salami disclosed that in the first phase of the exercise, Lagos recorded 139,251 registrations, with 126,668 new voters and 12,583 transfers. Women made up 54 per cent of new registrants, while men accounted for 46 per cent. Youths aged 18 to 39 represented 65 per cent of new registrations.
He explained that the second phase will build on lessons from the first and focus on expanding access and efficiency so that no eligible voter is left out. According to him, voter registration will be rotated across registration areas in all local governments for 50 days, from 2 February to 10 April 2026, before returning to local government offices from 11 to 17 April 2026.
The REC added that INEC has made arrangements for a smooth and transparent exercise by improving logistics, deploying trained personnel and strengthening technology to reduce delays and boost public trust. He stressed that the success of the process depends on the support and cooperation of political parties, civil society, the media and community groups.
Salami urged political parties to sensitise their members to follow INEC guidelines and avoid actions that could damage the integrity of the process. He called on civil society organisations, the media, religious leaders, youth groups and women’s groups to mobilise eligible voters in their communities to take part in the CVR.
He reminded residents that voter registration is not just a civic duty but the foundation of democratic representation and accountable government. He assured Lagosians that INEC is committed to a credible, inclusive and transparent CVR and will keep working to improve service delivery and protect the integrity of the ballot.