The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lagos State has concluded arrangements to commence a 50-day rotational Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise across all wards in the state, as part of efforts to widen voter participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Ayobami Salami, disclosed this on Sunday while addressing stakeholders at a meeting on the second phase of the CVR exercise.
Salami said the initiative was designed to reduce voter apathy and ensure that all eligible residents of the state have unhindered access to voter registration services.
He described the Continuous Voter Registration exercise as one of INEC’s core statutory responsibilities, stressing its central role in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.
“The Continuous Voter Registration exercise is one of INEC’s most critical statutory responsibilities. It is the primary means by which eligible Nigerians can register to vote, transfer their registration, correct personal details, and replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs),” the REC said.
According to him, the second phase of the exercise seeks to build on the successes and lessons of the first phase by bringing voter registration closer to the people through a rotational approach.
“This phase aims to expand access, improve efficiency, and ensure that no eligible voter in Lagos State is disenfranchised due to lack of opportunity to register,” Salami explained.
He said the exercise would be conducted through a rotational deployment across Registration Areas in all local government areas of the state for a period of 50 days, beginning on February 2 and ending on April 10, 2026.
Salami added that the final week of the exercise, from April 11 to April 17, 2026, would be centralised at local government area offices across the state, with further details to be communicated through INEC’s official channels.
The REC assured stakeholders that the commission had made adequate preparations to ensure a smooth, transparent and credible registration process.
“INEC has improved its logistics, deployed well-trained personnel and strengthened its technology to minimise delays and enhance public confidence,” he said.
However, Salami emphasised that the success of the exercise would depend largely on the cooperation of political parties and other stakeholders, urging them to adhere strictly to INEC guidelines and avoid actions capable of undermining the process.
He also called on civil society organisations, the media, traditional and religious leaders, as well as youth and women’s groups, to intensify mobilisation and voter education efforts across the state.
“Voter registration is not just a civic duty; it is the foundation of democratic representation and accountable governance, with shared benefits for all,” Salami said.
He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to credibility and transparency, assuring Lagos residents that the commission would continue to strengthen service delivery and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process ahead of 2027.