The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that more than 9.3 million young Nigerians were registered during the 2026 Continuous Voter Registration exercises as part of efforts to strengthen youth participation ahead of the 2027 general election.
The commission made the disclosure on Wednesday during the investiture of nine Youth Ambassadors in Abuja.
Represented by National Commissioner Prof Rhoda Gumus, INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan said a total of 9,324,349 youths were registered, describing the figure as evidence of the growing role of young people in Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to him, the commission’s decision to appoint Youth Ambassadors is aimed at deepening engagement with young voters and encouraging greater participation in electoral activities.
He noted that young people are more likely to respond positively to electoral messages communicated through individuals they identify with and trust.
Amupitan urged the ambassadors to promote voter education, encourage peaceful participation, counter misinformation and serve as advocates for responsible citizenship.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of INEC’s Outreach and Partnership Committee, Prof Kunle Ajayi, called on young Nigerians to reject electoral violence and avoid being used for activities capable of undermining the integrity of elections.
He stressed the importance of verifying information before sharing it, particularly in an era where false electoral claims can spread rapidly online.
Representatives of the Ministry of Youth Development and the National Orientation Agency also encouraged the ambassadors to use their platforms to promote civic responsibility and democratic values.
The newly unveiled ambassadors include actors, entertainers, content creators and disability advocates drawn from different sectors.
Meanwhile, INEC also presented a Certificate of Return to Hon. Kallamu MaiJama’a, winner of the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency bye-election conducted on September 19, 2026.
