INEC Ready for By-Elections, Nationwide Resumption of Voter Registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its preparedness to conduct all pending by-elections across Nigeria, while also announcing the imminent resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise nationwide.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, June 26, by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during a consultative meeting with civil society organisations and media executives in Abuja.
Professor Yakubu stated that the Commission had concluded all necessary logistical and administrative arrangements and is now in a position to move forward with both electoral exercises. He assured stakeholders that detailed schedules and operational guidelines for the by-elections and voter registration exercise would be released within 24 hours.
He also highlighted key dates in INEC’s electoral calendar, noting that the Anambra State governorship election has been fixed for November 8, 2025, and that the Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory are scheduled for February 21, 2026.
According to him, political parties have until June 30, 2025, to conclude their primaries ahead of the FCT polls.
The INEC boss used the occasion to call on civil society organisations and media representatives to begin early preparations to observe these upcoming elections. He urged them to submit their observer applications in good time, promising that the Commission would uphold transparency and provide adequate access for election monitoring.
Yakubu also revealed that INEC plans to introduce new technological innovations in the electoral process, including the establishment of an artificial intelligence (AI) unit to enhance data analysis, early warning systems, and real-time monitoring of election-related activities.
In response, representatives of civil society organisations commended INEC’s proactive measures and its commitment to inclusivity and openness. However, they also appealed for more time to complete observer registration procedures and urged the National Assembly to expedite amendments to the Electoral Act to support ongoing reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The upcoming resumption of the CVR is expected to offer millions of Nigerians, especially young people and those who have relocated, a fresh opportunity to register and participate in future elections. It also signals a new phase of electoral activity as INEC begins preparing for the next electoral cycle following the 2023 general elections.
The Commission’s renewed readiness has been widely interpreted as a positive development for Nigeria’s democratic process, reinforcing confidence among stakeholders and the electorate alike.
