Springwell Development Initiative, in partnership with Yiaga Africa, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy has organized a Civic Literacy Workshop aimed at promoting voter education and participation ahead of the 2027 Nigerian General Elections.
The workshop, themed “Youth Power, Our Voice: Enhancing Civic Literacy and Voter Participation in Lagos State,” brought together government officials, community leaders, and young people to discuss the importance of civic engagement and responsible electoral participation.
Delivering a goodwill message, Mrs. Ogundare Omolara, Electoral Officer of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Ojo, described the initiative as timely, highlighting voter apathy as a growing concern in Nigeria’s democracy.
She urged residents, especially youths, to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise by registering and collecting their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that the PVC remains a critical tool for selecting credible leaders.
Also speaking, Aiyedun Abidemi Oluwakemi, Assistant Director of the National Orientation Agency in Ojo, emphasized the role of civic education in strengthening democracy.
She noted that such initiatives help citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, encouraging young people to embrace responsible citizenship and contribute positively to national development.
Mrs. Esther Emeh, Head of Public Affairs at INEC Lagos State, highlighted the role of civic leaders in mobilizing citizens for electoral participation.
She urged community influencers, religious leaders, and social media users to raise awareness about voter registration and the importance of peaceful participation in elections, stressing that tackling voter apathy is a shared responsibility between the commission and citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the organizers, Feyikemi Idowu Omoniyi, Founder and Executive Director of Springwell Development Initiative, said the programme was designed to empower young people in Ojo to register, participate in elections, and vote for leaders committed to transparency and accountability.
Similarly, Ogunsola Micheal, Lagos State Focal Representative for Yiaga Africa, explained that the workshop aims to sensitize young voters on safeguarding the electoral process and ensuring that every vote counts.
Participants were encouraged to actively engage in the ongoing voter registration exercise and contribute to the strengthening of democracy through peaceful, responsible civic involvement.
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