The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State, in a strategic bid to bolster grassroots democratic participation, has announced the decentralisation of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
Commencing Monday, 2 February 2026, the exercise will transition from local government offices to the Registration Area (RA) and Ward levels. This rotational exercise is scheduled to span 50 days, covering all 319 Wards within the state.
The decision, ratified by the Commission’s management, aims to eliminate geographical barriers for eligible voters. By moving the registration process closer to the citizenry, INEC intends to streamline the experience for those residing in remote or underserved communities.
According to a statement issued by Geraldine Ekelemu, Head of Department for Voter Education and Publicity, on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, the initiative is a “sustained effort to bring the registration exercise closer to eligible Nigerians” and to foster a more inclusive electoral environment.
The 50-day window is not limited solely to new registrants. The Commission has clarified that the following services will be available at the Ward level:
Fresh Registration: For citizens who have recently attained the age of 18. Voter Transfers: For individuals who have relocated and wish to change their polling unit. Card Replacement: For those seeking to replace lost or defaced Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and Data Correction: For registered voters needing to rectify errors in their existing records.
To ensure a seamless and secure process, INEC has appealed to a broad spectrum of community and institutional leaders. The Commission urged Community Leaders, Civil Society Organisations, Political Parties, and the Media to assist in sensitising the public and maintaining an orderly atmosphere at the registration centres.
“The support of stakeholders is crucial to ensure a peaceful and orderly registration process in the various Wards,” the statement concluded.
Eligible residents of Rivers State are encouraged to monitor the rotational schedule to identify when the INEC registration team will be present in their specific Ward.
