The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken voter registration closer to the grassroots in Sokoto State with the commencement of the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, aimed at easing access for eligible voters across the state.
The exercise, which began on January 5, will run until April 17, and is designed to reduce the stress of long-distance travel for residents, particularly those in rural communities, by making registration more accessible at the local level.
Speaking on the exercise, the INEC resident Commissioner in Sokoto Umar Yusuf Garba, said the Commission was determined to ensure that no eligible voter is left out.
“This phase of the Continuous Voter Registration is about bringing the process closer to the people. We want every eligible Nigerian, whether in urban centres or rural communities, to have easy access to voter registration”
He noted that the renewed push follows the successful completion of the first phase of the CVR, which ran from August 18 to December 10, 2025, and placed Sokoto as the third best-performing state nationwide.
According to him, a total of 162,299 eligible voters were successfully registered during the first phase, a development he described as a clear indication of growing civic awareness in the state.
“The turnout we recorded shows that the people of Sokoto are increasingly committed to participating in the democratic process,” he added.
He explained that the ongoing phase will cater for Nigerians who have attained the age of 18, replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), correction of errors in voter information, and transfer of voter registration within or outside the state.
“Registration is currently taking place at all 23 INEC Local Government Area offices, the state office, and other approved registration centres across Sokoto State”
The Commission urged eligible residents who are yet to register, as well as those seeking to update their voter details, to seize the opportunity and participate actively.
Reaffirming its commitment, INEC said it remains focused on delivering a free, fair, inclusive, and credible voter registration process that strengthens democracy from the grassroots.
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