The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released fresh figures on the ongoing nationwide voter registration exercise, revealing that millions of Nigerians have already participated within just a few weeks of commencement.
According to a press statement signed by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information & Voter Education Committee, as of Sunday, September 7, 2025, a total of 3,544,850 Nigerians had completed online pre-registration since the process began on August 18, 2025.
The update shows that 1,709,933 (48.24%) of the registrants are male, while 1,834,917 (51.76%) are female. By age and occupation, the majority, 2,291,809 (64.65%), fall between the ages of 18 and 34, while 882,441 (24.89%) are students.
INEC noted that this trend highlights the active participation of young Nigerians in shaping the country’s democratic process.
The Commission further announced that it will henceforth present the combined figures for completed online pre-registration and physical registration to give Nigerians a clearer picture of progress.
Since the physical (in-person) registration commenced on August 25, 2025, a total of 288,614 Nigerians have registered as of Thursday, September 4. Of this number, 132,634 (45.96%) are male and 155,980 (54.04%) are female.
INEC added that 215,414 (74.64%) are between the ages of 18 and 34, while 114,150
The Commission stated that a comprehensive breakdown of the data—covering state, gender, age, occupation, and disability—has been uploaded to its website and other official platforms for public access.
INEC commended the positive response from citizens and civil society organisations mobilising civic participation for the exercise.
However, it warned against underage registration, stressing that the process is strictly for citizens aged 18 and above.
“We wish to reiterate that voter registration is only open to citizens who are 18 years or older at the time of registration. It is illegal for anyone to encourage underage registration or those below 18 years of age to register in anticipation that they will attain the legal age of voting by the time the general election holds in 2027,” the statement cautioned.
Olumekun assured Nigerians of the Commission’s commitment to transparency and inclusiveness.
“Once more, the Commission appreciates the positive response of citizens and organisations that have mobilised civic participation for the exercise,” he said.
