The Independent National Electoral Commission has urged Nigerians who have changed their place of residence to complete a voter registration transfer rather than register again as new voters.
The commission issued the reminder ahead of the closing date for the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise. It said voters who had relocated could move their registration to a polling unit closer to their current address.
In a post shared on X on Thursday, INEC warned that registering more than once was unnecessary. It advised affected voters to visit a registration centre or use its online portal to request a transfer.
“Have you moved to a new location? Your vote should move with you,” the commission said.
INEC added that voters should not allow their former polling locations to prevent them from participating in future elections.
“Don’t let your old polling location decide your future. Apply for a Transfer of Registration and vote where you now live,” it said.
How voter registration transfer works
The voter registration transfer service allows previously registered Nigerians to change their polling location after moving to another community, local government area or state.
INEC stressed that people who already have voter records should not begin another registration. Instead, they should request the transfer of their existing details to a polling unit near their present residence.
“Don’t register again. Simply apply for a Transfer of Registration,” the commission said.
Eligible voters can complete the process at any CVR registration centre. They can also use INEC’s online self-service platform to submit the request.
The portal provides several services beyond registration transfers. Nigerians can use it to apply for Permanent Voter’s Cards, correct personal information and request replacements for lost or damaged cards.
First-time voters can also complete the registration process through the platform. INEC said the service includes biometric capture and allows applicants to use their mobile phones without visiting an office.
INEC extends registration opportunity
The commission introduced the online service as part of efforts to make voter registration easier and more accessible.
It had earlier extended the nationwide exercise by two weeks to allow more eligible Nigerians to register and update their details ahead of future elections.
In its latest notice, INEC said the CVR exercise would close on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Registration centres will remain open between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., including weekends.
The electoral agency encouraged Nigerians to complete their applications before the deadline rather than wait until the final day.
“Every vote counts. Take a step today and be counted,” INEC said.
The commission’s warning is also aimed at preventing multiple registrations, which may create problems during the verification of voter records.
Relocated voters who complete the voter registration transfer will retain their existing registration while gaining access to a polling unit closer to where they currently live.
