Conversations around youth participation, electoral inclusion, and democratic responsibility took a more reflective tone at the Renewed Hope Campus Dialogue held in Abuja, where stakeholders gathered to examine the future of civic engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At the Federal Ministry of Environment, Maitama, Abuja, Hon. Oluremi Odunsi Oluwalogbon, Grand Matron of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Youth & Women Network. a support group recognized by APC delivered a passionate call for a more inclusive electoral system that ensures no eligible Nigerian is excluded from the democratic process, particularly persons with disabilities and underserved communities.
Speaking during her goodwill message, Oluwalogbon emphasized that democracy must be both participatory and accessible, stressing that civic inclusion is not optional but a fundamental requirement of a credible electoral system.
She urged electoral institutions and relevant stakeholders to continue improving access to voter registration centres and election processes, noting that physical, logistical, and systemic barriers still prevent many citizens from fully participating in elections.
According to her, the strength of democracy is measured not only by voter turnout but also by how inclusive the system is in accommodating all categories of citizens.
Oluwalogbon described the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) as more than a voting document, calling it a symbol of citizenship, identity, and civic power.
“The PVC is not just a card; it is your voice, your responsibility, and your access to the decision-making table of the nation,” she stated.
She further encouraged Nigerian youths, particularly students, to take advantage of ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercises, stressing that early participation is critical to shaping leadership outcomes in the 2027 elections.
The Grand Matron noted that with young people making up a significant portion of Nigeria’s population, their participation remains a decisive factor in determining the direction of national governance.
She also emphasized the importance of civic education, urging students to move beyond political apathy and embrace their roles as active stakeholders in democracy.
Oluwalogbon encouraged student leaders to serve as community ambassadors for voter sensitisation, mobilising peers across campuses to register and participate in the electoral process.
Her remarks were delivered in the presence of student leaders, youth advocates, policymakers, and representatives of various organisations who gathered under the theme focused on strengthening civic participation and youth inclusion in governance.
The Renewed Hope Campus Dialogue also featured the launch of a Campus Food Bank initiative designed to provide welfare support to students facing economic challenges across tertiary institutions, while reinforcing broader discussions on youth empowerment.
Across multiple interventions at the event, speakers consistently underscored the importance of linking student welfare with civic responsibility, arguing that sustainable national development requires both social support systems and active democratic participation.
The programme concluded with renewed calls for inclusive governance, expanded voter education, and stronger youth engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to deepening democratic participation across Nigeria’s campuses.
