INEC, NYSC Urge Youth Participation in Voter Registration
The Independent National Electoral Commission and the National Youth Service Corps have reiterated the importance of youth participation in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, urging young people to take part in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise.
This call was made on Wednesday at a civic engagement programme held at Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, where stakeholders gathered to promote youth involvement in the electoral process.
The event, initiated by a serving corps member, Magaji Ndagi, attracted officials of INEC, NYSC, government representatives, corps members and students from secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory.
Declaring the programme open, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said a credible voters’ register is key to free and fair elections.
He disclosed that over 3.7 million Nigerians had registered as of April 2026, with youths accounting for more than 68 per cent of new registrants.
Haruna noted that young people dominate Nigeria’s population and must be actively engaged to ensure meaningful democratic development.
He also highlighted the long-standing collaboration between INEC and NYSC, noting that corps members have played vital roles in election processes since 2011.
Representing the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General O. O Nafiu, Mrs Anyaogu Maureen urged youths to register and participate in elections, stressing that their votes shape the country’s future.
Similarly, Senior Technical Adviser to the Minister of Youth Development, Dr Obinna Ebirim, encouraged young Nigerians to move beyond online activism and engage directly in the democratic process.
He emphasised that active citizen participation is essential for democracy to thrive.
Also speaking, the Secretary to the Commission, Dr Rose Oriaran-Anthony, represented by Mrs Dorothy Bello, said voter registration remains a gateway to civic engagement and inclusive governance.
She identified civic education, improved access to registration centres and tackling misinformation as key to increasing youth participation.
In his welcome address, the convener, Magaji Ndagi, described the initiative as a call for youths to take responsibility for the nation’s future through active involvement in elections.
The event featured lectures, interactive sessions and the unveiling of a magazine aimed at promoting awareness and deepening youth engagement in the electoral process.

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