By Zainab Imam
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that over 2.68 million Nigerians have completed fresh voter registration nationwide, with Osun State emerging as the top contributor during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
According to figures released by the commission, Osun recorded 208,357 new registrants, the highest in the country. Kano State followed with 159,669, while Sokoto State recorded 152,650 new voters, placing the two North-West states second and third respectively.
INEC explained that the figures represent new voter registrations only, excluding requests for transfer of registration, correction of personal details, or replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The commission noted that all registrations are subject to verification through its Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) to detect and eliminate multiple registrations.
The commission attributed the steady turnout to improved registration procedures, including the online pre-registration portal, which allows applicants to begin the process digitally before completing biometric capture at INEC offices nationwide.
INEC also confirmed that registration is ongoing at its local government offices across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with extended service hours in some locations to accommodate high turnout.
As the exercise enters its final stage for the first quarter, INEC has urged eligible Nigerians aged 18 and above who are yet to register to do so before the CVR window closes on December 10, 2025. The commission reminded citizens that voter registration is free, warning that multiple registration is a criminal offence punishable under the law.
INEC added that a preliminary voters’ register will be published after the ongoing data cleaning process, while timelines for PVC production and collection will be communicated at a later date.
The surge in registration, particularly in Osun State, is seen by observers as a sign of renewed civic engagement, which could significantly shape voter turnout and electoral outcomes in future elections.