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.