The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stressed the need for broader collaboration with key institutions and stakeholders as preparations gradually gather pace for the 2027 general elections.
Chairman of the commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, said building a vibrant democracy requires more than technology and logistics, emphasizing that voter education and civic participation remain crucial to credible elections.
Amupitan made the remarks in Abuja while receiving the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, during a courtesy visit.
According to him, INEC’s partnership with the NOA is essential in addressing voter apathy and deepening citizens’ understanding of the electoral process.
The INEC chairman noted that while the commission continues to invest in technology such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), these innovations can only achieve their intended purpose when citizens actively participate in elections.
“We can deploy the best technology and put the finest systems in place, but they become meaningless if citizens are disengaged from the democratic process,” he said.
Amupitan described voter apathy as one of the biggest threats to Nigeria’s democracy, warning that declining participation in elections could undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions.
He praised the National Orientation Agency for its grassroots reach and ability to communicate with Nigerians in diverse communities across the country.
According to him, the agency possesses the cultural understanding and communication structures needed to educate voters and encourage greater participation in elections.
The INEC chairman stressed that civic enlightenment must remain a collective responsibility involving government agencies, civil society organisations, political parties and the media.
As the nation gradually prepares for another electoral cycle, he expressed optimism that stronger voter education campaigns would help rebuild public trust in the democratic process and encourage more citizens to exercise their voting rights.
Political observers have long argued that sustained voter education and public engagement are critical to improving voter turnout and strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria.
