By Theresa Donatus, Uyo
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on residents of Akwa Ibom State, especially eligible voters, to take full advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise to strengthen their participation in the democratic process.
Speaking during a live appearance on a media chat with journalists and civil society organizations in Uyo, the State Director of NOA, Mr. Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, said the voter registration exercise provides a vital opportunity for citizens to secure their eligibility to vote ahead of the next general elections.
According to him, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) designed the CVR to cater to specific categories of people, including those who have just turned 18 and never registered before, those who lost or damaged their voter cards, and individuals who wish to transfer their polling units within or across local governments and states.
Mr. Mkpoutom explained that the registration process would be rolled out in phases, beginning with online registration, which commenced on Monday, 18th August 2025, followed by physical registration at INEC Local Government Area offices starting Monday, 25th August 2025.
He noted that the new system was designed to eliminate the long queues and bureaucratic hurdles that characterized past exercises, stressing that citizens now have multiple avenues to register, including user-friendly online platforms and designated physical centers nationwide.
The NOA Director stressed that voter registration goes beyond just securing a voter’s card, describing it as a pathway to inclusive governance and national stability.
“Nigeria is a diverse society, and inclusive governance is critical for progress. The CVR process encourages participation from every segment of the population, ensuring that diverse voices are represented in government. That is how we can promote fairness and equity in political representation,” he said.
Mr. Mkpoutom urged all eligible Nigerians to see the CVR exercise as both a civic duty and an opportunity to shape the country’s future. He maintained that registering to vote was not just an individual right but a collective responsibility that strengthens democracy.
“By registering to vote, citizens assert their rights and contribute to the collective strength and future of our nation. It is imperative that we all take this responsibility seriously,” he said.
The NOA Director also called on political leaders, community groups, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to mobilize citizens across the state for active participation in the entire exercise.