The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has urged students of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State, to register to vote, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and take an active role in shaping the country’s democratic future.
The commission made the call during a youth sensitisation programme organised in collaboration with Project New Nigeria to promote voter registration, civic responsibility and greater youth participation in the electoral process.
Speaking at the event, the NDDC Director of Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone, who represented the Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu, said the participation of informed and responsible young voters was critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
He said the programme was designed to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence required to participate meaningfully in the electoral process.
“Our goal is to empower youths with the knowledge they need to participate confidently and responsibly in the electoral process. Every eligible citizen deserves the opportunity to make their voices heard,” Oritsejolone said.
He urged students who had attained voting age to take advantage of the opportunity to register and obtain their PVCs, describing the youth as a critical force in determining the future direction of the country.
“You are the heart of the New Nigeria we all seek. Your energy, brilliance and voice will determine the direction our nation takes.
“For your voices to be heard, you need to take the simple but powerful step: register to vote and collect your PVC, without which you cannot exercise your civic responsibility,” he said.
Oritsejolone said his commitment to youth development informed his decision to support the initiative, adding that the partnership was consistent with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its emphasis on youth empowerment, civic responsibility, inclusive governance and rebuilding public confidence in democratic institutions.
He said the initiative also aligned with the current direction of the NDDC under its management, which, he noted, was moving away from a transactional approach towards transformational development.
“The Commission is deliberately shifting its operations from a transactional approach to transformational developmental mandates, one that prioritises people, communities and sustainable impact,” he said.
The Convener of Project New Nigeria, Mr Samuel Nzidee, described the initiative as a platform for promoting a new way of thinking and leadership among young Nigerians.
“There are many challenges you face as students, and we are here to assist you with some,” Nzidee told the students.
He urged the youths to see their votes as a powerful instrument for demanding accountability and influencing government policies, stressing that their aspiration to become tomorrow’s leaders must begin with active participation in the electoral process.
“You should use your votes to demand a better future and to demand a seat at the table,” he said.
Beyond the voter sensitisation campaign, Project New Nigeria provided direct support to students of the university, paying tuition fees for 210 beneficiaries, including 10 persons living with disabilities.
The organisation also distributed electronic tablets to 15 first-year students to support their academic activities.
Nzidee commended the NDDC for its institutional support and partnership, saying the collaboration was instrumental to the success of the programme.
One of the beneficiaries, Moses Patrick, a student of the Department of Philosophy, expressed appreciation for the initiative, particularly the electronic tablet he received.
Patrick thanked the NDDC and Project New Nigeria for supporting students and called for the continuation and expansion of similar programmes.
The sensitisation programme is part of efforts to deepen youth engagement in Nigeria’s democratic process and encourage young citizens to move beyond political awareness to active participation.
Seledi Thompson-Wakama
Director, Corporate Affairs
