Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has called on residents of the state, particularly eligible youths, to take full advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that active participation in the democratic process is both a civic duty and a powerful tool for shaping the future of the state and the country.
The governor made the appeal amid the nationwide voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, an initiative aimed at expanding the voter base, updating existing records, and ensuring that all eligible Nigerians have the opportunity to participate in forthcoming elections. Governor Namadi emphasized that the Permanent Voter Card remains the only legal instrument that confers the right to vote and be counted in any election under Nigeria’s democratic system.
According to the governor, democracy can only thrive when citizens actively engage in the electoral process, and voter registration is the foundation of such engagement. He noted that Jigawa State has a large population of young people who constitute a significant portion of eligible voters, adding that their participation is essential to deepening democratic governance and ensuring that leadership reflects the will of the people.
Governor Namadi expressed concern over the persistent apathy among some segments of the population, particularly youths, who often complain about governance and leadership outcomes yet fail to take part in critical democratic processes such as voter registration and voting. He urged young people to recognize that meaningful change begins with participation and that registering to vote is the first step toward influencing policies, leadership choices, and development priorities.
The governor described the ongoing voter registration exercise as an opportunity for first-time voters who have attained the legal voting age, as well as for those who may have lost their voter cards or need to transfer their registration due to relocation. He stressed that failing to register effectively silences one’s voice in governance and limits the ability to hold leaders accountable through the ballot.
Namadi also highlighted the importance of peaceful and orderly participation in the registration process, calling on residents to adhere to guidelines provided by electoral officials and to conduct themselves responsibly at registration centers. He noted that the success of the exercise depends not only on the preparedness of electoral authorities but also on the cooperation and discipline of citizens.
In addressing concerns about access to registration centers, the governor assured residents that relevant authorities were working to ensure that the process is as inclusive and accessible as possible, particularly for people in rural communities. He encouraged community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to support awareness campaigns and mobilize eligible residents to participate actively in the exercise.
Governor Namadi further linked voter registration to broader goals of accountability and good governance. He explained that when citizens are registered and participate in elections, elected officials are more likely to be responsive to the needs of the people, knowing that their performance will be judged at the polls. According to him, a strong voter turnout begins with widespread registration, which strengthens democratic legitimacy and public trust in governance.
The governor also used the occasion to call on parents, guardians, and educators to encourage young people to see voter registration as an integral part of civic education. He noted that instilling democratic values early helps build a politically conscious generation that understands its rights and responsibilities within a democratic society.
Observers say the governor’s call comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges related to voter apathy, especially among young people who often feel disconnected from political processes. Despite being one of the most politically aware demographics, many youths have historically shown lower participation rates during elections, a trend that electoral bodies and governments are seeking to reverse through sustained engagement and sensitization.
Political analysts in the state note that Jigawa has traditionally recorded relatively high voter turnout compared to some other parts of the country, but they caution that complacency could undermine progress if eligible voters fail to register. They argue that continuous voter registration is a critical mechanism for sustaining democratic participation, particularly as populations grow and demographics change.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has repeatedly emphasized that the voter registration exercise is not limited to new voters alone but also accommodates those seeking to update their details, correct errors, or replace damaged or lost voter cards. This flexibility, analysts say, is designed to ensure that no eligible citizen is disenfranchised due to administrative issues.
Governor Namadi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting democratic institutions and processes, noting that credible elections are essential for political stability and development. He said the government would continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to promote voter education and ensure that residents are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities.
Residents across Jigawa State have responded with mixed reactions, with some welcoming the governor’s appeal as timely and necessary, while others have called for sustained sensitization campaigns to address lingering skepticism about the impact of voting. Community advocates argue that beyond registration, authorities must also work to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process by ensuring transparency, security, and fairness during elections.
As the voter registration exercise continues, the governor urged residents not to wait until the last minute, warning that delays could lead to overcrowding at registration centers and possible exclusion. He encouraged citizens to act promptly, reminding them that democracy functions best when everyone has a voice and chooses to use it.
With future elections on the horizon, the emphasis on voter registration reflects a broader effort to consolidate democratic participation in Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole. For many observers, the success of the exercise will not only be measured by the number of new registrants but also by the level of civic awareness and engagement it inspires among citizens, especially the youth.
Governor Namadi concluded his appeal by reiterating that governance is a shared responsibility and that the power to shape leadership and public policy ultimately lies with the people. By obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards, he said, residents of Jigawa State are taking a crucial step toward ensuring that their voices count in deciding the direction of their communities, state, and nation.
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