The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday announced that over 2.3 million Nigerians have newly registered to vote as part of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. The latest figures show significant participation across the country, with Osun, Imo, and Kano states leading in new registrations.
According to INEC, a total of 2,316,232 new registrations were recorded nationwide during the 12th week of the CVR exercise, which began on August 18, 2025, and is scheduled to continue until August 2026. Registration figures cover both online and physical registration methods.
INEC’s spokesperson noted that the registration exercise is temporarily suspended in Anambra State, in line with Section 9(6) of the Electoral Act 2022, ahead of the state’s governorship election held on November 8, 2025. As a result, Anambra’s new registration numbers were not included in the current update.
The South-West state of Osun recorded the highest number of new registrants during the reporting period, with 185,089 Nigerians registering to vote. Imo State followed with 143,386 new registrations, while Kano State had 132,290 new voters. Other states with high participation include Sokoto (123,320), Lagos (109,693), the Federal Capital Territory, FCT (106,855), and Borno (106,376).
Several states in the North and South also recorded notable increases. Kogi State reported 91,573 new registrants, Jigawa (88,209), Zamfara (84,268), Katsina (80,425), Kaduna (78,282), and Kebbi (74,159). In the South-South region, Delta State added 72,311 new voters, while Ogun recorded 71,091.
Other notable figures include Niger (69,739), Akwa Ibom (65,446), and Oyo (64,561). Rivers State recorded 57,251, Benue (42,557), Bayelsa (38,627), and Bauchi (36,166). Smaller numbers were reported in states such as Ekiti (32,096), Gombe (31,542), Nasarawa (30,348), Ebonyi (28,310), Edo (27,130), and Plateau (24,077). The lowest figures came from Taraba (17,803), Enugu (16,304), Ondo (16,012), Cross River (14,559), and Abia (12,297).
INEC officials say that South-West states, particularly Osun and Lagos, have consistently shown strong turnout, reflecting a heightened awareness and participation among residents. The northern states are also showing increasing numbers of new registrants, attributed largely to intensified voter mobilisation by local authorities, community leaders, and religious institutions.
The commission’s continuous voter registration exercise is part of a broader national effort to strengthen democratic participation ahead of the 2026 general elections. The CVR allows Nigerians to register for the first time, update personal information, or transfer registration to a new location.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, highlighted that the CVR is critical for ensuring credible and inclusive elections. “Our goal is to ensure that every eligible Nigerian who wants to vote can do so without obstacles,” he said during a recent briefing. “The rising numbers of registrants across different states show that citizens are increasingly aware of their civic responsibilities.”
While South-West states lead in registration numbers, some areas continue to face challenges. Rural communities and areas with security concerns have recorded slower registration rates. In addition, internet connectivity issues affect online registration in some northern and southeastern states.
Despite these challenges, INEC has been working with local governments, community leaders, and civil society organisations to ensure widespread access to registration centres. In many states, mobile registration units have been deployed to reach remote and underserved communities.
With almost one million new registrations in just the top three states, the INEC update signals strong momentum heading into the 2026 electoral season. Political parties are expected to intensify voter education and mobilisation campaigns to capitalise on the growing pool of registered voters.
INEC officials have also reminded citizens to check their registration status, ensure their details are accurate, and report any discrepancies promptly. Registration errors can complicate the voting process and potentially disenfranchise eligible voters.
The commission reiterated its commitment to transparent and credible elections. It also assured that the CVR exercise will continue across all states, except those suspended for pending elections, until August 2026.
