Youths Make Up the Majority as INEC Registers 2.43 Million New Voters

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has registered 2.43 million new voters nationwide in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, with Nigerians aged 18 to 34 accounting for the majority of fresh registrations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the Commission’s latest update, the figure reflects strong youth participation in the voter registration exercise, highlighting the growing influence of young Nigerians in the country’s democratic process. The registration statistics remain provisional, pending the completion of the claims and objections period and verification through INEC’s Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).

To improve accessibility, INEC has continued to expand registration options, allowing eligible Nigerians to begin the process online through pre-registration before completing biometric capture at designated registration centres. Voter registration can also be completed entirely in person at approved CVR centres nationwide.

As part of its broader electoral reform agenda, the Commission is also working to digitise voter services ahead of the 2027 polls. Planned initiatives include the introduction of downloadable Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), full online voter registration, and easier replacement of lost or damaged PVCs, subject to the completion of the necessary legal and technological frameworks.

Meanwhile, INEC has extended the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise to July 24, 2026, giving more eligible Nigerians additional time to register before the exercise concludes.

The latest figures underscore a growing enthusiasm among young Nigerians to participate in the electoral process, with the Commission expressing confidence that ongoing digital reforms will further improve voter access, strengthen electoral integrity, and encourage broader participation in future elections.