A renewed PVC Registration Drive is gathering pace in Kogi State as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan encourages residents to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise. The lawmaker representing Kogi Central urged eligible citizens to secure their Permanent Voter’s Cards before the July 10, 2026 deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Her appeal focused particularly on young people and first-time voters across the state.
The registration exercise forms part of INEC’s nationwide efforts to expand voter participation ahead of future elections. The process also allows existing voters to update or correct their information in the electoral database. Electoral observers have consistently identified voter registration as a key step toward strengthening democratic participation and representation.
In a statement released on Friday, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the voter card as an essential instrument for civic engagement. She stressed that active participation remains critical to shaping governance outcomes at community, state, and national levels.
“Your vote remains your voice, and your voice matters in shaping the future of our communities, our state, and our nation,” she said.
The senator also encouraged residents whose voter records contain errors to take advantage of the remaining registration period. According to her, ensuring accurate voter information is just as important as obtaining a PVC. She warned against waiting until the final days of the exercise before seeking registration or updates.
Beyond individual participation, the lawmaker called for broader community involvement in the PVC Registration Drive. She urged traditional leaders, youth associations, community groups, and civil society organisations to increase awareness efforts across Kogi communities. Such grassroots mobilisation, she noted, could help improve registration numbers and strengthen public engagement in democratic processes.
Akpoti-Uduaghan further highlighted the significance of voter participation in sustaining democratic institutions. She argued that elections become more representative when citizens actively exercise their constitutional rights.
“Democracy thrives when citizens participate actively. A PVC is not just a card; it is a symbol of your right to determine the future you desire,” the senator added.
The ongoing registration exercise comes at a time when political participation is attracting renewed attention among young Nigerians. Increased voter enrolment is often viewed as an indicator of civic awareness and public interest in governance. Analysts also note that higher registration rates can contribute to more inclusive decision-making processes.
For students, entrepreneurs, professionals, and other residents, the PVC Registration Drive presents an opportunity to strengthen their role in shaping future leadership choices. As the July 10 deadline approaches, stakeholders are expected to intensify awareness campaigns to ensure that eligible voters are not left out of the electoral process.
INEC continues to conduct nationwide voter registration and information update exercises ahead of the closing date.
