The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening youth participation in Nigeria’s democratic process, as stakeholders gathered in Abuja for a civic engagement programme promoting the Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, exercise.
The event, held on Wednesday at Merit House, Maitama, was initiated by a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Magaji Ndagi, as part of his Community Development Service, CDS.
It attracted top INEC officials, NYSC representatives, government stakeholders, corps members, and students from across the Federal Capital Territory.
Declaring the programme open, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, commended the initiative as a strong example of youth-driven national development.
He noted that a credible voters’ register remains the bedrock of free, fair, and credible elections.
Haruna disclosed that more than 3.7 million Nigerians had registered in the ongoing CVR exercise as of April 2026, with youths accounting for over 68 per cent of new registrants.
He stressed that engaging young people is critical to ensuring that democracy delivers meaningful impact.
Highlighting the enduring partnership between INEC and the NYSC, the commissioner noted that corps members have played pivotal roles in election management since 2011.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the NYSC, Oluwasegun Nafiu, represented by Mrs. Anyaogu Maureen, praised the convener, describing him as a model of youth commitment to nation-building.
He urged young Nigerians to take advantage of the CVR exercise and actively participate in elections.
“Votes do count, and exercising your civic right is taking charge of the future of this country,” he said.
In his remarks, Senior Technical Adviser to the Minister of Youth Development, Obinna Ebirim, described the initiative as timely and aligned with national priorities on youth inclusion.
He called on youths to move beyond online activism and engage directly in the democratic process.
“Your vote is your voice. Your registration is your right. Your participation is your power,” he said.
INEC Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, represented by the Director of Gender and Inclusivity, Mrs. Dorothy Bello, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to inclusive electoral processes.
She warned that low youth registration remains a significant risk to democratic growth.
Earlier, the convener, Magaji Ndagi, described the initiative as a call to action for young Nigerians to take ownership of their future through active civic participation.
“Continuous Voter Registration is more than just obtaining a voter’s card; it is about giving yourself a voice in shaping the leadership and direction of our country,” he said.
The event featured lectures by senior INEC officials, interactive sessions, and the unveiling of a magazine aimed at boosting awareness and strengthening youth engagement in electoral processes.
