INEC TASKS YOUTHS ON ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN CVR, WARNS AGAINST APATHY 








The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified stakeholder engagement with Nigerian youths, urging them to take full advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise as a critical step toward strengthening democratic participation and national development.

The event, convened by NYSC corps member and INEC advocate, Magaji Ndagi, focused on enhancing youth participation in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process under the theme “Enhancing Youth Engagement in Continuous Voter Registration.”

The forum had in attendance representatives of the Commission, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), as well as students and corps members.


Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Commission, the National Commissioner, Mallam Mohammad Kudu Haruna, who also chaired the occasion, underscored the constitutional and legal foundations underpinning voter registration in Nigeria.

He noted that the right of citizens to choose their leaders is guaranteed under the Constitution, while the Electoral Act provides clear conditions for voter eligibility and procedures for registration.

“A credible voters’ register remains the foundation of every free, fair, and credible election,” he stated, stressing that only citizens who are duly registered are empowered to exercise their franchise.

Providing an update on the CVR exercise, Haruna explained that the first phase commenced in August and ended in December, while the ongoing second phase, which began in January, is scheduled to close shortly, to be followed by a final phase.

He further highlighted statutory timelines, noting that voter registration must end at least 90 days before any general election to allow for data processing, verification, and production of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs).

Citing recent figures, he disclosed that millions of Nigerians have registered so far, with youth constituting a significant proportion, but emphasised that the numbers still fall short of expectations when compared to the demographic strength of young people.


Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Obinna Obirim conveyed the Minister’s strong commendation of the convener, describing the initiative as a model of youth-driven leadership and civic responsibility.

He noted that Nigeria’s youth population, which constitutes over 50 percent of the total population, holds the decisive power to shape democratic outcomes and national development.

“Democracy does not thrive on silence. It does not grow through indifference, nor through mere expressions on social media. It flourishes when citizens actively participate,” he stated.

Dr. Obirim emphasised that voter registration remains the most fundamental step in democratic participation, warning that failure to register effectively excludes individuals from influencing governance.

“Your voice does not count by merely expressing opinions online. It begins when you register and is affirmed when you vote,” he added.

He expressed concern that despite their numerical strength, many young Nigerians remain disengaged from the electoral process, often limiting their participation to commentary rather than action.

The Minister, through his representative, urged youths to transition from passive observers to active contributors, mobilising themselves and their peers to participate in the CVR exercise and elections.

He also highlighted several youth empowerment initiatives of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, including digital skills programmes, data protection training, and entrepreneurship support schemes, encouraging young people to take advantage of such opportunities.


In her remarks, the representative of the Director-General of the NYSC, Mrs. Analogue Maureen, emphasised the strategic role of corps members as agents of voter education and mobilisation across communities.

She disclosed that the NYSC, in collaboration with INEC, the National Orientation Agency, and development partners, has intensified Civic and Voter Education programmes nationwide to promote awareness and participation.

She urged youths to discard misconceptions about elections, particularly the belief that outcomes are predetermined.

“The idea that votes do not count is a myth. The reality is that participation determines outcomes. When you do not vote, you lose the moral authority to complain,” he said.

She further called on young Nigerians to overcome fear and apathy, stressing that collective participation is essential to achieving credible elections and national progress.


Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Secretary to the Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Oriaran-Anthony, represented by the Director Gender and Inclusivity (G&I) Mrs. Bello Lakunuya Dorothy reaffirmed INEC’s constitutional mandate to conduct credible, inclusive, and transparent elections.

She highlighted the importance of continuous voter registration as a cornerstone of democratic participation, noting that it provides eligible citizens the opportunity to be captured in the voter register and exercise their right to vote.

“The voter register is the bedrock of the electoral process. Without registration, there can be no participation,” she stated.

She further outlined measures introduced by the Commission to enhance access and participation, including online pre-registration, improved logistics, increased sensitisation, and deployment of technology to streamline the process.

While expressing concern over declining youth participation, she stressed that sustained voter education and awareness campaigns are essential to reversing the trend.

“INEC will not leave any eligible citizen behind. However, citizens must take responsibility by presenting themselves for registration,” she added.


Earlier in his welcome address, the convener of the forum, Mr. Magaji Ndagi, described the gathering as a movement aimed at inspiring young Nigerians to take ownership of their future through active civic engagement.

“Continuous voter registration is more than obtaining a voter card; it is about giving yourself a voice, being counted, and taking responsibility for the leadership of your country,” he said.

He encouraged youths to move beyond apathy and become active participants in the democratic process, noting that failure to register amounts to surrendering their future to others.


In a vote of thanks, the Director of Voter Registry, Mr. Tunde Gafar, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and participants for their contributions to the success of the forum. He commended the convener for the initiative and encouraged continued collaboration in promoting voter registration and active participation in the electoral process, particularly among young people.