On August 27, 2025, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory issued a passionate call to action, urging citizens to participate actively in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Chairman of Northern CAN, emphasized the critical importance of voter registration as the foundational step for citizens to influence governance and shape Nigeria’s future. The call comes at a pivotal moment, as INEC’s CVR, which began online pre-registration on August 18, 2025, and physical registration on August 25, 2025, aims to prepare the nation for upcoming elections. With over 1.3 million Nigerians already registered in the first week, the exercise represents a significant opportunity to strengthen democratic participation. This article explores CAN’s appeal, the details of INEC’s CVR, the challenges of voter apathy, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic process.
A Call to Civic Duty
Rev. John Joseph Hayab’s press conference was a clarion call for Nigerians to embrace their civic responsibility and engage in the voter registration process. As the leader of Northern CAN, representing a significant religious and social constituency, Hayab underscored the power of the ballot in shaping governance. “Voter registration represents the first essential step for citizens who want their voices to influence governance,” he stated, framing registration as a gateway to active participation in Nigeria’s democracy. His message was directed not only to Christians but to all Nigerians, emphasizing the universal importance of electoral engagement.
Hayab’s appeal was rooted in a deep concern about voter apathy, a persistent challenge in Nigeria’s democratic process. He warned that skepticism about the value of votes only serves to empower politicians who benefit from low voter turnout. “Our votes matter. If votes were meaningless, no one would attempt to buy them. Nigerians should recognize that real power lies in the ballot and not in money offered during elections,” he said. This statement highlights a critical issue in Nigerian politics: the practice of vote-buying, where politicians offer financial inducements to sway voters. By rejecting such practices, Hayab argued, citizens can reclaim their agency and demand accountability from elected leaders.
The chairman’s message was particularly directed at youths and women, whom he identified as critical demographics in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. With the majority of registrants in the CVR aged 18 to 34, young people represent a powerful force for change. Hayab urged them to approach the registration exercise with seriousness and patriotism, warning that “selling your vote is selling your conscience and your future.” His call for rejecting inducements and standing firm for a Nigeria built on justice, peace, and progress resonated as a rallying cry for a new era of civic engagement.
The Role of Religious Leaders in Mobilization
Recognizing the influence of religious institutions in Nigeria, Hayab called on leaders of all faiths to intensify awareness campaigns within their congregations and communities. Nigeria is a deeply religious country, with Christianity and Islam shaping the social and cultural fabric of its 200 million-plus population. Faith-based platforms, such as churches and mosques, serve as vital avenues for mass mobilization, reaching millions of Nigerians across urban and rural areas. By leveraging these platforms, religious leaders can educate their followers about the importance of voter registration and the power of their votes.
Hayab’s appeal to religious leaders reflects a broader strategy to harness Nigeria’s social structures for democratic participation. Churches, in particular, have historically played a significant role in mobilizing communities for social and political causes in Nigeria. From voter education to advocacy for good governance, religious institutions have the infrastructure and trust to engage citizens effectively. By calling for interfaith collaboration, Hayab emphasized the need for a unified approach to address voter apathy and promote civic responsibility.
The involvement of religious leaders also serves to counter the narrative of electoral disillusionment. Many Nigerians, particularly in the North, have expressed frustration with the electoral process, citing issues such as electoral violence, rigging, and unfulfilled campaign promises. By framing voter registration as a moral and patriotic duty, religious leaders can inspire their communities to overcome these challenges and participate actively in shaping the nation’s future.
INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration: A Nationwide Effort
The CVR, launched by INEC to prepare for upcoming elections, is a critical component of Nigeria’s democratic process. The exercise, which began with online pre-registration on August 18, 2025, and physical registration on August 25, 2025, will continue until August 30, 2026. INEC has established registration centers at its 811 state and local government offices nationwide, aiming to make the process accessible to all eligible citizens. The CVR accommodates three main activities: fresh registrations for first-time voters, transfers of voting locations for those who have relocated, and replacements of lost or damaged voter cards.
INEC’s early reports indicate strong public interest in the CVR, with over 1.3 million Nigerians completing online pre-registration within the first week. The demographic breakdown reveals that the majority of registrants are aged 18 to 34, highlighting the enthusiasm of young people to participate in the electoral process. This youthful energy is a positive sign for Nigeria’s democracy, as young voters have the potential to drive change and hold leaders accountable.
However, INEC has also emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the voter register. Multiple registrations, which can lead to electoral fraud, remain illegal, and the commission has implemented measures to detect and prevent such practices. The use of technology, including biometric verification and online pre-registration, reflects INEC’s commitment to modernizing the electoral process and ensuring transparency.
Addressing Accessibility Challenges
Rev. Hayab’s call for INEC to bring registration centers closer to citizens, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas, addresses a critical barrier to voter participation. Nigeria’s diverse geography, with remote villages and challenging terrain in many northern states, poses logistical challenges for electoral processes. Rural communities often face difficulties accessing registration centers due to distance, poor infrastructure, and limited resources. By prioritizing accessibility, INEC can ensure that all eligible Nigerians, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to register and vote.
Hayab’s suggestion aligns with broader calls for inclusive electoral processes. Women, in particular, face unique challenges in accessing registration centers, including cultural barriers, childcare responsibilities, and limited mobility. By establishing mobile registration units or partnering with community organizations, INEC can make the CVR more inclusive and equitable. Such measures would also demonstrate the commission’s commitment to ensuring that no eligible voter is left behind.
The Broader Context: Voter Apathy and Electoral Challenges
Voter apathy remains one of the most significant challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. Despite having one of the largest populations in Africa, Nigeria consistently records low voter turnout in elections, with turnout rates often below 50%. This trend is particularly pronounced in the northern states, where security concerns, economic hardship, and distrust in the electoral process have discouraged participation. Hayab’s warning that apathy strengthens politicians who thrive on low turnout underscores the urgency of addressing this issue.
The practice of vote-buying, which Hayab explicitly criticized, is a pervasive problem in Nigerian elections. Politicians often exploit economic vulnerabilities, offering cash, food, or other inducements to secure votes. This practice undermines the integrity of the electoral process and erodes public trust in democracy. By urging citizens to reject inducements, Hayab is challenging Nigerians to prioritize long-term progress over short-term gains, a message that resonates with the broader push for good governance.
Security concerns also pose a significant barrier to voter participation, particularly in the northern states, where banditry, insurgency, and communal conflicts have disrupted communities. Ensuring the safety of registration centers and voters is critical to encouraging participation. INEC’s collaboration with security agencies and community leaders will be essential to creating a safe environment for the CVR and future elections.
The Role of Youth and Women in Shaping Nigeria’s Future
Hayab’s emphasis on youths and women as key demographics reflects their growing influence in Nigeria’s political landscape. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 35, young people represent a powerful force for change. The enthusiasm shown in the CVR’s first week, with a majority of registrants aged 18 to 34, suggests that young Nigerians are eager to engage in the democratic process. This demographic shift offers an opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s political culture, prioritizing issues such as education, employment, and technology.
Women, too, play a critical role in Nigeria’s democracy, yet they remain underrepresented in political processes. Cultural and systemic barriers often limit women’s participation, but initiatives like the CVR provide an opportunity to empower female voters. By encouraging women to register and vote, CAN is advocating for greater gender equity in Nigeria’s political system, which could lead to more inclusive policies and governance.
Collaboration for a Stronger Democracy
Northern CAN’s pledge to collaborate with churches, civil society organizations, and community leaders underscores the importance of collective action in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. Civil society organizations have long played a vital role in voter education and mobilization, providing resources and advocacy to ensure free and fair elections. By partnering with these groups, CAN can amplify its message and reach a broader audience, fostering a culture of civic engagement.
The involvement of community leaders is particularly crucial in northern Nigeria, where traditional and religious authorities hold significant influence. These leaders can bridge the gap between INEC and local communities, addressing misconceptions about the electoral process and encouraging participation. By building a coalition of stakeholders, CAN is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and participatory electoral process.
The Path Forward: Building a Nigeria of Justice, Peace, and Progress
Rev. Hayab’s vision for a Nigeria built on justice, peace, and progress reflects the aspirations of millions of Nigerians who seek a better future. The CVR is a critical step toward realizing this vision, as it empowers citizens to hold leaders accountable and shape the nation’s direction. By participating in the registration process, Nigerians can assert their democratic rights and demand governance that prioritizes their needs.
The success of the CVR will depend on the collective efforts of INEC, religious leaders, civil society, and citizens. INEC’s commitment to accessibility and transparency, combined with CAN’s advocacy for mobilization, creates a powerful framework for increasing voter participation. As the registration exercise continues until August 30, 2026, there is ample opportunity to engage more Nigerians and build a robust voter register for the upcoming elections.
Conclusion
The Christian Association of Nigeria’s call for active participation in INEC’s Continuous Voter Registration is a powerful reminder of the importance of civic engagement in shaping Nigeria’s future. Rev. John Joseph Hayab’s impassioned appeal, delivered on August 27, 2025, underscores the transformative power of the ballot and the need to overcome voter apathy. By urging religious leaders, youths, and women to participate, CAN is fostering a culture of accountability and patriotism.
INEC’s CVR, with over 1.3 million registrants in its first week, reflects the enthusiasm of young Nigerians and the potential for change. However, challenges such as accessibility, vote-buying, and security must be addressed to ensure an inclusive and credible process. Through collaboration with churches, civil society, and community leaders, CAN is paving the way for a stronger, more participatory democracy. As Nigerians heed this call to action, they have the opportunity to build a nation rooted in justice, peace, and progress, where every voice matters and every vote counts.
About the Author
