INEC Chairman Advocates Youth Engagement for 2027 Elections

On Wednesday in Abuja, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan SAN highlighted the essential role of Nigerian youth in advancing the nation's democracy as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. He unveiled a youth-friendly version of the 2026 voter education manual, developed in collaboration with Kimpact Development Initiative.

This manual is designed to improve civic education access for the youth, recognizing their significant demographic presence. Amupitan noted that the manual employs visual storytelling to engage young voters effectively, reflecting the digital consumption habits of the 21st century.

He stressed the importance of civic education in enhancing voter turnout and bridging the trust gap in the electoral process. The initiative also involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and civil society groups, to promote public awareness and participation.

Amupitan expressed concern over declining voter turnout, which dropped from 60% in 2003 to 30% in the last general elections, underscoring the urgency of renewed voter education efforts.