By Uriel Ihotu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to youth inclusion in Nigeria’s democratic process, as stakeholders gathered in Abuja for a civic engagement programme promoting participation in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
The event, held at Merit House in Maitama, was initiated by a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Magaji Ndagi, as part of his Community Development Service (CDS) project. It attracted senior INEC officials, NYSC representatives, government stakeholders, corps members, and students from secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the event, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mohammed Kudu Haruna, commended the initiative, describing it as a strong example of youth-driven national development.
He stressed that a credible voters’ register remains the foundation of free and fair elections, noting that over 3.7 million Nigerians had registered as of April 2026, with youths accounting for more than 68 percent of new registrants.
According to him, engaging young people is essential, given their dominance in Nigeria’s population and their critical role in shaping democratic outcomes.
Also speaking, the Director-General of NYSC, O. O Nafiu, represented by Mrs. Anyaogu Maureen, urged youths to take advantage of the ongoing CVR exercise, emphasising that active participation in elections is key to nation-building.
The Senior Technical Adviser to the Minister of Youth Development, Obinna Ebirim, described the initiative as timely, encouraging young Nigerians to move beyond online discussions and actively participate in the electoral process.
Similarly, INEC Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, represented by Mrs. Dorothy Bello, highlighted the importance of inclusive electoral participation, noting that youth disengagement poses a risk to Nigeria’s democracy.
In his remarks, the convener, Magaji Ndagi, described the programme as a call to action for young Nigerians to take ownership of their future by registering and voting.
The event featured lectures, interactive sessions, and the unveiling of a magazine designed to deepen awareness and promote youth engagement in electoral processes.
