The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State has approved the decentralisation of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise to Registration Area and ward levels across the state.
INEC announced the decision in a press release issued on 30 January 2026 and signed by Geraldine Ekelemu, Head of Voter Education and Publicity, on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Rivers State.
The Commission said the move aims to bring voter registration closer to eligible citizens and increase participation in the electoral process, especially at the grassroots level.
According to INEC, the ward-level CVR exercise will begin on Monday, 2 February 2026, and will run for 50 days on a rotational basis across the 319 wards in the state.
INEC explained that the initiative forms part of its ongoing efforts to expand access to voter registration, remove barriers, and promote greater inclusion of eligible Nigerians in the democratic process.
The Commission urged residents who have attained the age of 18 to take advantage of the exercise when it reaches their wards. It added that the exercise also caters for voters seeking to transfer their registration, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards, or correct errors in their voter details.
INEC further called on community leaders, civil society organisations, political parties, the media, and other stakeholders to support public sensitisation and help ensure a peaceful and orderly registration process across Rivers State.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to deepening democracy through increased voter participation and assured residents of a transparent and inclusive registration exercise.