In just five days, over half a million Nigerians have taken a big step toward shaping the country’s future.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that 505,906 citizens pre-registered online for the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), which began on August 18, 2025.

According to INEC, this massive turnout is a clear sign that Nigerians are eager to make their voices heard at the polls.

Speaking at the official flag-off of a nationwide sensitisation campaign in Abuja, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu—represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu—described the response as highly encouraging. He said the campaign, which featured a roadshow from INEC headquarters through Banex Plaza and ended at Wuse Market, will be replicated in states across the country to further mobilise voters.

“As of midnight on August 22, 505,906 citizens had pre-registered. This shows that Nigerians believe in democracy and are ready to strengthen our electoral process,” Yakubu stated.

What’s Next?

The online phase is only the beginning. From Monday, August 25, 2025, INEC will begin the physical registration stage at 811 centres nationwide, covering all 36 states, the FCT, and the 774 local government areas. At this stage, both those who pre-registered online and new applicants will need to complete their registration by capturing their biometrics.

Registration will run Mondays to Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

INEC’s Preparedness

Victoria Eta-Messi, INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, assured that the commission’s offices are fully ready for the in-person exercise.

“Our offices are ready; that’s why we gave a week between online pre-registration and physical registration. From August 25, Nigerians will be attended to in all our state and LGA offices nationwide,” she explained.

In the FCT, 66 registration officers have just completed a two-day training to ensure a smooth process. Resident Electoral Commissioner Malam Aminu Kasimu Idris urged the officers to uphold professionalism and efficiency, while Administrative Secretary Mrs. Bimbo Oladunjoye stressed the importance of mastering new technologies introduced into the process.

Why It Matters

The huge response within just five days highlights a growing determination among Nigerians to participate in elections. With 2027 in sight, the CVR exercise provides an opportunity for millions of citizens, especially first-time voters, to ensure they are eligible to cast their votes.

INEC’s call is simple: Don’t wait—get registered, get your PVC, and get ready to vote.