Northern States Voter Drive gains momentum as officials move to close the registration gap amid lagging online pre-registration figures

Northern States Voter Drive is gaining momentum as regional governments, religious leaders, and community groups ramp up mobilisation efforts to address low participation in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

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Despite the North’s significant population, the South continues to dominate online voter pre-registration, raising concerns among political stakeholders.

As of September 7, 2025, over 3.5 million Nigerians have pre-registered online. Yet, states like Kano (66,091), Zamfara (32,784), and Bauchi (46,504) reported comparatively low figures, in stark contrast to Osun (518,635), Lagos (440,647), and Ogun (348,217).

To combat the growing disparity, northern state governments have launched extensive grassroots campaigns, deploying local officials and forming task forces.

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf pledged full support to make Kano the top-registered state, while Kaduna’s Governor Uba Sani described the drive as vital to inclusive governance.

In Zamfara, Yobe, Nasarawa, and Kwara, similar mobilisation efforts are underway. From sensitisation drives to training volunteers, the push is on to close the North–South registration gap.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continues to encourage eligible citizens—especially those aged 18–34, who make up 64.65% of registrants—to complete their registration either online or in person.

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Political analysts warn that if the North fails to increase its numbers before the exercise ends, the imbalance could influence future electoral outcomes. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, time is ticking.