… Puts Spotlight on Nigerians Still Waiting to Register
By Obinna Dike
For many young Nigerians standing patiently in line at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) centre in Enugu, the journey was about more than obtaining a Permanent Voter’s Card. It was about claiming a voice in the future of their country.
That hope received an unexpected boost when the presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, visited the registration centre to observe the process and interact with prospective voters.
Rather than making the visit solely about politics, Obi turned attention to the thousands of eligible Nigerians who may be unable to register before the exercise ends. He appealed to INEC to extend the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration by an additional 90 days, arguing that more time would allow millions of citizens to participate in the democratic process.
According to him, democracy becomes stronger when every eligible citizen has a fair opportunity to vote.
His appeal resonated with many at the centre, where long queues and steady turnout reflected growing public interest in voter registration.
For first-time voters, especially young people, the exercise represents more than a civic obligation. It is a chance to influence decisions that affect education, employment, security and the cost of living.
Some registrants expressed optimism that an extension would help those who have struggled with work schedules, transportation challenges or delayed access to registration centres.
Political observers note that calls for wider voter participation cut across party lines, as increasing the number of registered voters ultimately strengthens public confidence in elections and democratic institutions.
As Nigerians continue to troop to registration centres across the country, the conversation is no longer just about numbers. It is about ensuring that no eligible citizen is left behind simply because time ran out.
Whether or not the registration period is extended, the scenes at the Enugu centre serve as a reminder that behind every voter card is a citizen hoping that their single vote can help shape Nigeria’s future.
