NORTHERN CAN CALLS ON NIGERIANS TO REGISTER FOR PVCS
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BY OWOLABI OLUWADARA
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has urged Nigerians to actively engage in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) initiative being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, emphasized that voter registration is the initial step for citizens who are committed to making their opinions known in governance. He encouraged Nigerians to cast aside any uncertainties regarding the significance of their votes, underscoring that apathy only empowers politicians who thrive on low participation rates.
“Our votes matter. If votes were inconsequential, no one would endeavor to purchase them. Nigerians should recognize that the true power resides in the ballot, not in the money exchanged during elections,” Rev. Hayab articulated.
The cleric appealed to leaders of all faiths to amplify awareness within congregations and communities, characterizing faith-based platforms as effective mechanisms for large-scale mobilization.
He also called upon INEC to position registration centers closer to the populace, particularly those in rural and difficult-to-access regions, to facilitate the process for prospective voters.
According to INEC, the online pre-registration portal was launched on August 18, 2025, while physical registration began on August 25, 2025. The initiative is slated to continue until August 30, 2026, across the Commission’s 811 state and local government offices nationwide.
The electoral authority revealed that over 1.3 million Nigerians completed their online pre-registration within the first week of the initiative, with individuals aged 18 to 34 constituting the majority.
INEC also reminded the public that the CVR encompasses new registrations, transfers of voting locations, and the replacement of lost or damaged voter cards, while cautioning that multiple registrations remain unlawful.
Rev. Hayab specifically urged young people and women to approach the initiative with seriousness and a sense of patriotism. “Selling your vote is selling your conscience and your future. We must reject inducements and stand steadfast for a Nigeria founded on justice, peace, and progress,” he stated.
Northern CAN assured that it would persist in collaborating with churches, civil society organizations, and community leaders to guarantee that no eligible Nigerian is excluded from the registration process.
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