The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kwara State has commenced the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in line with the Electoral Act 2022, with both online and physical registration now open to eligible Nigerians.
Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Hale Gabriel Longpet, announced this on Monday at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the INEC Collation Centre, Ilorin. He said the physical registration began today across all the 16 local government offices and the state office of the Commission, and will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily, Mondays to Fridays.
According to Dr. Longpet, the CVR exercise will be conducted in three phases: Phase One: August 18 to December 10, 2025. Display of register for claims and objections will hold from December 15 to 21, 2025. Phase Two: January 5 to April 17, 2026. Display of register will follow from April 20 to 26, 2026. Phase Three: May 4 to August 17, 2026. Display of register will hold from August 24 to 30, 2026.
He stressed the need for registrants to provide accurate and valid information during the process, warning that multiple registration remains an offence under the law.
Dr. Longpet also explained that during the exercise, citizens would have the opportunity to transfer their registration within or outside Kwara State, while those with damaged or lost Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) can apply for replacements. He revealed that uncollected PVCs have been dispatched to all INEC local government offices for collection by registered voters.
“As we gradually approach the 2027 elections, the Commission in Kwara State has embarked on robust voter enlightenment. However, we urge all stakeholders—political parties, civil society, traditional institutions, women and youth groups—to support this effort by mobilizing citizens, especially women, youths and persons with disabilities, to participate in the CVR,” the REC stated.
He assured stakeholders of adequate security during the exercise, noting that INEC would continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure the safety of registrants and staff.
He added that traditional rulers had pledged support in ensuring maximum security in areas affected by insecurity.
Dr. Longpet further appealed to political parties to contribute actively to voter sensitization and to promote peace within their domains.
He reiterated that the Commission is committed to conducting a free, fair and transparent CVR exercise and continue to work tirelessly to ensure that all eligible citizens are registered to vote and that the electoral process is credible and trustworthy,” he said.
The State Chairman of the APC, Prince Sunday Fagbemi urged the party to mobilize members and troop out en masse for the registration and success of the party in the forthcoming general elections.
Similarly, Kwara Commissioner of Police, represented by ACP Yusuf Mukaila assured of maximum security of lives and properties throughout the exercise and beyond
