The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it will officially commence the nationwide online voter pre-registration exercise on August 18, 2025, as part of efforts to improve voter access, reduce crowding at registration centers, and ensure a more efficient and inclusive electoral process.
This initiative is part of INEC’s broader strategy to leverage technology in deepening democratic participation ahead of the upcoming general elections. The pre-registration platform will be available on the commission’s official website, allowing eligible Nigerians to begin the process from the comfort of their homes before completing it at designated physical centers.
In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, the commission emphasized that this process is open to new voters, Nigerians who have turned 18 years old, and those who have never previously registered. It also applies to registered voters who need to update their information, transfer their polling units, or correct data errors.
“The online pre-registration portal will go live on Monday, August 18, 2025, and will remain open for several months to give every eligible Nigerian ample time to participate. This is in line with INEC’s commitment to making voter registration more accessible, especially to youths, students, and persons with disabilities,” the statement read.
Key features of the online process include:
- Account creation using a valid email and phone number
- Filling in of personal biodata and uploading a passport photograph
- Scheduling of an appointment at a designated INEC office for biometric capture and final verification
INEC has assured the public that data privacy will be strictly upheld, and all information provided on the portal will be encrypted and stored securely.
Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, urged Nigerians not to wait until the last minute, noting that early registration would help reduce bottlenecks and technical difficulties often experienced close to election deadlines.
“We are calling on all Nigerians, especially first-time voters, to take advantage of this opportunity. Your voice matters, and the power to shape Nigeria’s future begins with your voter’s card,” Yakubu said.
Civil society organizations and pro-democracy groups have welcomed the development, describing it as a significant step toward greater voter inclusion and participation. They are also calling on INEC to intensify public sensitization, particularly in rural areas where digital access may be limited.
INEC says more details on the pre-registration process, including user guides in multiple local languages, will be released in the coming days to ensure widespread understanding and compliance.
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