The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has encouraged students in tertiary institutions across the Niger Delta to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He explained that the PVC is an important instrument that enables citizens to participate in choosing leaders and shaping governance, especially those whose policies reflect the interests of young people.
Ogbuku made this appeal during the launch of the Project New Nigeria and a voter registration awareness programme organised by the Foundation for Citizens Empowerment in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. His remarks were contained in a statement released in Port Harcourt by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama.
Represented by the Director of Social Services, Jeremiah Oritsejolone, he said that participating in elections shows belief in the country’s potential for development.
He stated:
“The Nigerian youths are the heartbeat of the new Nigeria that we all seek. Your energy, brilliance and voice would determine the direction our nation takes.
“For your voice to be heard, you must collect your PVC as the process gives you the opportunity to influence decisions, shape governance and demand accountability,” he said.
Ogbuku also noted that the NDDC has continued to implement development and capacity-building programmes across the Niger Delta and encouraged young people to take civic responsibility seriously by registering and collecting their PVCs ahead of future elections.
He added that the commission would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting youth empowerment and active civic participation.
The Convener of Project New Nigeria, Samuel Okani, also said the programme was designed to support government efforts by educating students on the importance of voter participation.
He explained that the initiative is being taken to universities across the region to sensitize students on the need to obtain their PVCs and take part in elections, adding that youth participation is key to influencing economic and political decisions.
Okani expressed confidence that the initiative would continue in the coming years.