Eligible Nigerians who wish to vote in upcoming elections can register for a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) through the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) system introduced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The process begins online but must be completed physically at designated registration centres.
INEC confirmed that the current nationwide voter registration exercise started on August 18, 2025, and will run until August 30, 2026, giving eligible citizens time to obtain their PVCs ahead of future elections. (SNOW TV NEWS)
Who Can Register
According to INEC guidelines, a person must meet the following conditions to register:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Be 18 years or older
- Reside, work, or originate from the area where they intend to register
- Not be legally disqualified from voting in Nigeria (INEC Nigeria)
Step-by-Step: How to Register Online for PVC
- Visit the Online Registration Portal
Go to the INEC CVR portal: INEC Continuous Voter Registration Portal. - Create an Account
Sign up with your email address and create a password to access the registration system. - Complete the Online Pre-Registration Form
Fill in personal details such as:- Full name
- Date of birth
- Residential address
- State and local government area
- Upload Required Information
Applicants may need to upload a passport photograph and other relevant details as requested on the portal. - Schedule a Visit to an INEC Registration Centre
After submitting the online form, choose a convenient registration centre near you. - Visit the Centre for Biometric Capture
The online step only saves time. Applicants must visit an INEC office or designated centre for:- Fingerprint capture
- Photograph
- Verification of details. (INEC CVR Portal)
- Collect Temporary Voter’s Card (TVC)
After completing biometric registration, you will receive a Temporary Voter’s Card. - Collect Your PVC Later
Once the card is ready, you must return to the INEC office with the temporary card to collect the permanent one. (INEC Nigeria)
Important Deadline
INEC has fixed August 30, 2026 as the official deadline for the current Continuous Voter Registration exercise across Nigeria. Citizens who fail to register before this date may have to wait for the next registration cycle. (SNOW TV NEWS)
Why the PVC Is Important
The PVC remains the only valid document for voter accreditation during elections in Nigeria, making it essential for citizens who wish to participate in the democratic process. (SNOW TV NEWS)
Final Note
INEC encourages Nigerians who have turned 18 or who missed previous registration exercises to take advantage of the ongoing CVR to obtain their PVC before the deadline. Early registration also helps reduce congestion at registration centres as the closing date approaches.