Voting for the First Time? Here's What to Expect

Congratulations on exercising your civic duty for the first time! It's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Here's what your first voting experience will look like.

The Night Before

• Set your alarm — Plan to arrive at your polling unit by 7:30–8:00 AM.
• Prepare what you need — Your PVC is the only document you need. Keep it somewhere safe and easy to grab.
• Eat breakfast — You may be standing in a queue for a few hours. Start your day well-nourished and hydrated.
• Dress comfortably — Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes. There is usually no shade in the queue.

Arriving at the Polling Unit

• Look for the INEC signpost with your polling unit name and code.
• Find the queue. INEC officials will direct you.
• There may be security personnel (police, civil defence) at the polling unit. They are there for your safety.

The Atmosphere

• It is typically calm and orderly. Nigerians from all walks of life come together.
• Party agents sit near the voting area — they are allowed to observe but not to influence you.
• You may see election observers with badges — they monitor the process for fairness.

What NOT to Do

• Don't wear party colors or symbols — This is called "campaigning at the polling unit" and is not allowed.
• Don't take photos of your ballot — Taking a photo of your marked ballot is illegal.
• Don't try to vote more than once — The indelible ink and BVAS records prevent this, and it's a criminal offence.
• Don't be intimidated — No one can force you to vote for a particular candidate. Your vote is secret.

After Voting

Stay and watch the counting if you can! It's a powerful experience. Results are counted openly at each polling unit, and everyone present can witness it. The results are then photographed and uploaded to INEC's portal. You can also use the MyPollingUnit app to photograph the result sheet and submit it as a citizen-verified record.

Your one vote matters. Every election in Nigeria's history has been shaped by individual citizens like you choosing to show up.