The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reported that 505,906 Nigerians completed online pre-registration for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) within five days of its relaunch on August 18, 2025. The announcement came during a nationwide sensitization campaign launched on August 22 to boost participation in the voter registration process.

INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the turnout as evidence of strong public faith in Nigeria’s democracy. “As at midnight of Thursday, 22nd of August, 2025, over 505,906 citizens have pre-registered since the portal opened five days ago. For us, this is a testament that Nigerians believe in our democracy,” Yakubu stated.

The CVR’s physical phase begins August 25, allowing both pre-registered individuals and new applicants to complete registration, including biometric capture, at 811 centers, comprising all 774 Local Government Area offices and state offices, open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. INEC’s campaign, featuring roadshows from its Maitama headquarters through Banex Plaza to Wuse Market, aims to raise awareness, with similar events planned nationwide.

Yakubu urged eligible voters, particularly youth and those needing to update or transfer voter details, to participate, emphasizing, “Your Permanent Voter Card is the key to making your voice heard.” He called on political parties, civil society, and media to support the initiative. The commission views the high pre-registration numbers as a positive sign but faces the challenge of ensuring physical registration matches this enthusiasm.