The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that Nigeria's voter register has grown to 103,428,715 registered voters, following the completion of three phases of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise between August 2025 and July 2026. This represents a significant increase of 10,772,421 new registrations after biometric verification. The registration exercise has been instrumental in expanding the voter base, and INEC has now moved into full-scale execution mode for the 2027 general elections.
Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna have emerged as the top three states with the highest number of registered voters. Lagos leads the pack with 7,488,633 voters, followed closely by Kano with 6,570,276 and Kaduna with 4,662,640. Other states among the top 10 include Katsina, Rivers, Oyo, Delta, Benue, Ogun, and Bauchi. The voter register will be displayed nationwide from October 9 to 15, allowing citizens to scrutinize the register and raise claims and objections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, unveiled the Commission's 100-day operational plan for the elections at a World Press Conference and National Stakeholders' Meeting in Abuja. He stated that nine of the 14 major statutory milestones contained in the Commission's revised timetable had been completed. The plan includes the distribution of the first phase of Permanent Voter Cards to Local Government Centres, commencing on October 9.
To enhance the voter registration process, INEC has introduced online registration and printable PVC technology. The Commission has also acquired 57,000 new Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices for the elections, which have undergone software hardening, battery optimisation, and biometric calibration. A nationwide inventory and functionality audit has also been conducted to ensure the devices are ready for deployment.
INEC has established a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Division within its ICT Department to address emerging technological threats to the electoral process. The Commission is working with international technology partners to deploy AI-driven anomaly detection tools capable of monitoring database traffic and protecting public portals against cyber intrusions and unauthorised alterations. This move aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and prevent manipulation of election results.
The Commission has strengthened its logistics arrangements, including agreements with transport unions for the mobilisation of over 100,000 vehicles and 4,000 boats. Specialised transportation will be deployed to difficult terrains, including riverine communities in the Niger Delta, the Lake Chad Basin, and mountainous areas in the North-East and North-West. A total of 707,384 personnel will be required for each of the two election days, covering the country's 176,846 polling units.
INEC will work with the Ministry of Justice, EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU to monitor illicit campaign spending and vote-buying. The Commission will also deploy Braille materials, assistive devices, and sign-language interpreters to improve access for persons with disabilities. With 232,658 registered persons with disabilities, voter education will be expanded through various channels to ensure inclusivity and equal participation in the electoral process.
Key points
- INEC has introduced online registration and printable PVC technology to reduce difficulties associated with distance, time, and delays in the voter registration process.
- The Commission has acquired 57,000 new BVAS devices for the elections, which have undergone rigorous testing and calibration.
- INEC has established a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Division to address emerging technological threats to the electoral process.
