The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled August 2025 for a nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, aiming to enroll millions of new voters ahead of upcoming elections.
The announcement, made by INEC Chairman Professor Yakubu Mahmoud during a press briefing in Abuja, underscores the commission’s commitment to ensuring an inclusive electoral process for Nigeria’s growing population.
The CVR, set to run from August 4 to August 29, 2025, will allow eligible Nigerians, particularly those who have turned 18 since the last registration in 2023, to register at designated centers across the country.
INEC plans to deploy additional registration machines to accommodate the anticipated turnout, with a focus on capturing first-time voters and updating voter records. Mahmoud emphasized that the exercise will adhere to strict guidelines to prevent irregularities, building on lessons from previous elections.
Also see: Nigeria’s Capital Market Soars 16.57% in H1 2025, NGX Instruments Reach ₦126.73 Trillion
In Rivers State, a politically vibrant region, INEC is prioritizing outreach to engage young voters in urban and rural communities. Port Harcourt, the state capital, will host multiple registration centers, including mobile units in areas like Obio/Akpor and Eleme to reach underserved populations.
Local youth groups in Rivers State have welcomed the initiative, noting that it provides an opportunity for the state’s large youth demographic to shape Nigeria’s democratic future. “This is our chance to make our voices count,” said Nkechi Amadi, a student leader in Port Harcourt.
The state’s active civic culture, driven by its economic significance as an oil and gas hub, makes it a focal point for voter mobilization. INEC officials in Rivers State are collaborating with community leaders to ensure accessibility, particularly in remote areas like Bonny and Andoni.
The commission has also introduced digital tools, such as an online pre-registration portal, to streamline the process, a move praised by tech-savvy youths in the region.
INEC has urged Nigerians to verify their voter status ahead of the exercise and report any issues with lost or damaged voter cards. With over 80 million registered voters in the 2023 elections, the commission aims to surpass this figure, driven by population growth and increased political awareness.
As Rivers State gears up for the CVR, its residents are poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through active participation.
