The PVC Sensitization and Endorsement Tour for the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State has officially concluded in Ogoja Local Government Area, with renewed calls for young people across the region to take active part in the ongoing voter registration exercise.

According to Akahi News, the event was organised by the Office of the Special Assistant on Youth Mobilization (North) to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Simon Inah, as part of a statewide effort to mobilise youth participation ahead of future elections. The sensitisation drive, which traversed several local government areas, aimed to educate young people on the importance of obtaining and using their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) as the most vital tool for political engagement and leadership accountability.

Hon. Simon Inah Reiterates Importance of Political Inclusion

In his closing address at the Ogoja rally, Hon. Inah Simon Emeka emphasised that young people make up the majority of Nigeria’s population and, as such, hold significant influence in determining the nation’s political direction.

“We cannot demand better representation if we are not part of the process that produces leaders,” Hon. Inah declared. “Many youths are frustrated with governance, yet they ignore the first and most crucial step—registering to vote. Your PVC is your voice, your right, and your power to change the narrative.”

He urged participants to take the message beyond the event venue into their communities, schools, religious centres, and workplaces, encouraging others to register and prepare to vote in forthcoming elections.

Stakeholders and Youth Leaders Back the Initiative

Several youth leaders, council authorities, and political stakeholders from across the Northern Senatorial District attended the closing event, commending the initiative for its grassroots-oriented approach.

Participants who spoke with Akahi News described the tour as timely, especially at a period when civic apathy among young people remains a major concern. Many acknowledged that sensitisation campaigns such as this are crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundation.

A youth delegate from Obudu noted that the campaign had “rekindled a sense of civic duty” among first-time voters. “Most of us didn’t understand how powerful the PVC really is until now. This programme has opened our eyes,” he said.

Ogoja Event Marks the Climax of a Statewide Engagement

The Ogoja leg marked the final phase of the PVC Sensitization and Endorsement Tour, which earlier visited several parts of the Northern Senatorial District, including Bekwarra, Obudu, and Yala. Each stop featured community dialogues, voter education sessions, and motivational addresses from local leaders.

According to Akahi News correspondents present at the event, the atmosphere in Ogoja was electrifying, with youth groups displaying banners and placards carrying inscriptions such as “My PVC, My Power” and “Vote or Be Silent.”

Hon. Inah and his team expressed satisfaction with the turnout, noting that the response demonstrated a growing awareness among young people about the significance of political participation.

Government Commends Youth Mobilisation Efforts

The Cross River State Government, through representatives at the event, lauded the initiative as a model for youth engagement in governance. Officials encouraged other political aides and civic organisations to replicate similar campaigns in their respective zones.

According to Akahi News findings, voter registration centres in several northern local governments of the state have witnessed increased turnout in recent weeks, a development attributed to the impact of the sensitisation exercise.

Hon. Simon Inah reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining youth mobilisation beyond the tour, promising to collaborate with relevant agencies and civil society organisations to ensure that every eligible youth in Cross River North is registered and ready to vote.

“This movement is bigger than politics—it’s about the future,” he said. “If the youth do not rise to take ownership of their tomorrow, others will continue deciding for them.”

The success of the PVC Sensitization and Endorsement Tour in Ogoja underscores the growing momentum behind youth-led democratic participation in Cross River State and serves as a reminder that meaningful change begins with civic responsibility.

Thanks. By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Akahi News — Empowering Voices. Shaping the Future.