The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged Nigerian youths to take a leading role in strengthening the country’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, made the call in Abuja during the unveiling of the 2026 Voter Education Manual and its youth-friendly version, developed in collaboration with Kimpact Development Initiative.
Represented by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, the chairman said young people remain central to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
He explained that the youth-focused manual was designed to make civic education more accessible and engaging, particularly through digital platforms and visual storytelling, in line with how young people consume information.
INEC noted that voter apathy remains a major challenge, with turnout declining significantly since 1999. The commission stressed that increased civic education and awareness of electoral laws would help boost participation and rebuild public trust in the electoral process.
The commission also highlighted plans to deploy peer-to-peer engagement strategies and nationwide outreach efforts, including collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps and the National Orientation Agency, to ensure wider voter education.
Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the initiative as timely, noting that grassroots engagement would play a key role in promoting credible elections.
Similarly, Team Lead of Kimpact Development Initiative, Bukola Idowu, said the youth-friendly manual positions young Nigerians not only as voters but also as advocates and change agents in the democratic process.
INEC emphasised that sustained voter education remains critical to reversing apathy and ensuring free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
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