By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and the National Youths Service Corps, NYSC recently held a civic engagement in Abuja to highlight the essential role of young Nigerians in sustaining democracy. 

The event focused on the importance of youth participation in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process.

The program was uniquely initiated by a serving corps member, Magaji Ndagi, as a Community Development Service project. It gathered top officials from INEC, the NYSC, and local students to discuss active national involvement.

INEC Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna praised the youth-led initiative as a vital step for national development. He noted that a credible voters’ register is fundamental to ensuring free and fair democratic elections.

Data revealed that as of April 2026, over 3.7 million Nigerians had registered, with youths making up 68% of new registrants. Haruna stressed that democracy is only effective when this dominant demographic is fully engaged.

The NYSC emphasized the long-standing partnership where corps members act as the backbone of election logistics. Officials urged young people to use their massive voting power to take charge of the nation’s future.

The Ministry of Youth Development challenged young citizens to move beyond online activism to real-world action. They reminded the audience that physical registration and voting are the true sources of political power.

INEC representatives warned that youth disengagement remains a risk to the health of the nation’s democracy. They called for improved civic education and easier access to registration centers to bridge the gap.

The event concluded with a call for youths to shift from apathy to ownership of the democratic process. A new awareness magazine was unveiled to further educate and inspire young people toward active citizenship.