The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed October 9, 2026, for the commencement of nationwide collection of newly issued Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Amupitan, the newly issued PVCs are linked to the three phases of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which recorded 10,772,421 new registrations. The registrations are subject to verification through the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).

The INEC chairman directed officials to identify and address operational challenges that could delay the distribution and collection of PVCs, particularly at the Local Government Area level and in rural communities.

He stressed the importance of effective field operations, noting that the conduct of electoral officials at registration centres, polling units and other grassroots locations would be critical to public confidence in the electoral process.

Amupitan also urged INEC personnel to maintain neutrality and professionalism and avoid administrative lapses that could undermine confidence in the 2027 elections.

The Kaduna meeting is part of INEC’s six-zone national readiness tour, aimed at assessing preparations, identifying challenges facing field operations and developing solutions ahead of the elections.

INEC has also encouraged traditional rulers to help mobilise eligible Nigerians to collect their PVCs. Registered voters can check the status of their PVCs and locate their designated collection centres through the commission’s official voter portal.