INEC has officially announced that nationwide INEC voter registration will begin on August 18 ahead of the 2027 elections.
Professor Sam Egwu, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Benue, disclosed this information during a press briefing in Makurdi.
INEC will start with online pre-registration through its website, followed by physical enrollment beginning August 25 across Nigeria.
Citizens can register in person at all INEC area offices and designated centers from Monday to Friday, 9am–3pm.
Professor Egwu urged Nigerians who turned 18 after 2023 to take advantage of this new registration opportunity.
He said the exercise includes people who missed registration earlier due to absence, imprisonment, or general lack of interest.
INEC will also handle updates for damaged, lost, or outdated voter cards during the INEC voter registration period.
People can apply to transfer voter details within states, wards, polling units, or even between different Nigerian states.
Professor Egwu emphasized that registration is free and warned Nigerians not to pay or bribe officials for assistance.
He encouraged early participation to avoid the usual rush and long queues that often occur closer to the deadline.
INEC confirmed it will announce the closing date later, giving time to collect and verify all biometric data.
The commission has also created measures to register displaced persons (IDPs) who were affected by insecurity or conflict.
Professor Egwu said IDPs deserve equal access to vote and INEC will register them in their temporary locations.
He stressed the importance of preparing the voters’ roll early enough to avoid complications during the 2027 elections.
INEC wants to ensure transparency and accessibility for everyone eligible under the law during this registration phase.
Professor Egwu said INEC voter registration empowers citizens to shape the country’s future through democratic participation.
He urged young Nigerians especially to register and vote, saying their voices matter in every election cycle.
Finally, he reminded all eligible Nigerians that only registered voters will be allowed to vote in 2027 elections.
