The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced a sensitisation programme to educate students on the importance of voter registration and active participation in the nation’s electoral process.

Speaking during the sensitisation programme for students at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the NDDC Director, Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone, stressed the need to strengthen democratic participation and encourage responsible citizenship.

Oritsejolone, who represented the NDDC Director, Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu, noted that informed and registered voters were essential to building a strong democracy. He stated: "Our goals and objectives are to empower youths with the knowledge they need to participate confidently and responsibly in the electoral process. Every eligible citizen deserves the opportunity to make their voices heard."

The Director advised students of eligible age to take advantage of the opportunity to exercise their civic duty, stating: "You are the heart of the New Nigeria we all seek; your energy, brilliance and voice will determine the direction our nation takes."

"For your voices to be heard, you need to take the simple, powerful step: register to vote, collect your PVC, without which you cannot exercise your Civic responsibility."

Oritsejolone further stated, "I have great passion for youths; anything about youths, I show keen interest, as such I accepted to partner with the Project New Nigeria to make this event a reality in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration which emphasises youth empowerment, civic responsibility, inclusive governance and the rebuilding of public trust in the democratic institutions."

He said, "it resonates with the current vision of the NDDC management, which is deliberately shifting the Commission's operations from a transactional approach to transformational developmental mandates. One that prioritizes people, community, and sustainable impact."

The Convener, Project New Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Nzidee said the project was a new way of thinking, a new way of leading the society. He stated, "There are many challenges you face as students, and we are here to assist you with some."

He said youths were the leaders and decision-makers of tomorrow, noting, however, that this could only be achieved through the electoral process. Nzidee advised them to register and collect their PVCs, which he said is their power to vote. He stated, "You should use your votes to request a better future, to use your vote to demand a seat at the table.

The Project New Nigeria team paid tuition fees for 210 students, including 10 persons living with disabilities. The organisation also distributed electronic tablets to 15 100-level students.

Nzidee commended the NDDC for its partnership and providing Institutional support to Project New Nigeria, which made the event a reality.

One of the participants, Mr. Moses Patrick, a student in the Philosophy Department and beneficiary of the electronic tablet, expressed delight, thanked the NDDC and its partner for organising the event, and asked for more in the future.

•PHOTO: NDDC Director EHSS, Engr Jeremiah Oritsejolone (2nd left), presenting an iPad to a UNIUYO student, Mr Bokeime Joel Emmanuel (2nd right), during Project New Nigeria and voter Education and sensitisation at the University of Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State. With them are the Convener, Project New Nigeria,

Mr. Samuel Nzidee (right) and the NDDC Deputy Director, EHSS, Mrs Chioma Nwakwue (left).