The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged young women in the South-West to participate actively in the 2027 General Election.
The commission made the call on Monday at a zonal awareness creation workshop for young female voters ahead of the elections.
The workshop was held at the INEC Lagos State Collation Centre, Sabo, Yaba.
In his welcome address, Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Ayobami Salami, reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to inclusive electoral participation, particularly among young women.
Salami urged participants to understand their electoral rights, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and reject vote buying.
He also advised them to shun electoral violence and misinformation while aspiring to leadership positions beyond exercising their voting rights.
In a goodwill message, the Deputy Director, Civic Values, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs Obi Ngozi Clara, urged young women against boycotting elections.
She said they should participate fully in the electoral process to safeguard their future.
Presenting the workshop’s objectives, the Deputy Director, Gender Relations Division, INEC Headquarters, Mrs Hembadoon Akaayar, stressed the importance of empowering young women.
Akaayar said the initiative aimed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to participate actively in elections.
She added that it would strengthen their understanding of the electoral process and promote responsible participation in democratic governance.
INEC Gender Desk Officer in Lagos State, Mrs Yewande Jegede, spoke on building young female voters’ confidence.
Jegede emphasised the need for women to understand their electoral rights, overcome participation barriers and exercise their franchise without fear.
The Head of Voter Education and Publicity, INEC Lagos State, Mrs Esther Emeh, outlined the commission’s preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Emeh identified electoral technology, voter education, personnel training and established election-day procedures as measures to ensure transparency.
She said the measures would also promote an orderly electoral process.
The Administrative Secretary, INEC Lagos State, Mrs Adenike Tadese, said the commission prioritised inclusive participation and strengthening the electoral process.
The workshop forms part of INEC’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion and enhance women’s participation in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
