The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated that the minimum age for voter registration in Nigeria remains 18 years.
Yobe State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, gave the clarification on Thursday during an advocacy visit to the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Umar-Suleiman, in Gashua.
The Emir had asked whether individuals who are currently 16 or 17 years old could register ahead of turning 18 by 2027. In response, Abdullahi stressed:
“Only eligible citizens aged 18 and above are allowed to register and vote under the Electoral Act.”
He emphasized that voter registration is a vital part of the electoral process that directly impacts the credibility of elections.
According to him, his visit to the Emir’s palace was to seek support in sensitizing residents about the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. He added that the law empowers INEC to work with stakeholders and update the voter register before any election.
Abdullahi explained that online registration commenced on August 18, while physical registration will begin on August 25 at INEC’s headquarters in Damaturu and designated centres across the 17 local government areas of the state.
He noted that the registration targets residents who have never registered, those who recently turned 18, voters with issues concerning their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and those wishing to transfer their polling units.
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