NGO urges women to update voter registration, boost electoral participation

By Hafsah Tilde

The Women and Youth Care Empowerment Initiative (WAYCE), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has called on women across Nigeria to update their voter registration and actively participate in elections.

The group emphasised that every vote counts in strengthening democracy, urging greater civic engagement among women to improve participation in the electoral process.

The group said greater participation of women in the electoral process would enhance democratic governance and ensure stronger representation in decision-making at all levels.

The call was made during a voter awareness rally themed “My Vote, My Voice, Vote Not Fight, Election No Be War”, organised by the NGO on Thursday in Abuja to promote civic engagement.

Executive Director of WAYCE, Dr Geraldine Okafor, said many women had become discouraged from voting due to the belief that their votes did not make a difference in determining electoral outcomes.

“We know that many women feel their votes do not count and therefore see no reason to participate in elections.

“But we want them to understand that their votes matter and can shape the future of our country,” she said.

Okafor said such perceptions had contributed to low political participation among women, in spite of their significant population and important role in shaping governance, leadership and societal development across the country.

“We know the importance of women’s power. Women constitute a significant voting population and must use that strength to influence leadership choices through the ballot box,” she said.

She urged women to update their voter registration and prepare ahead of future elections by actively engaging in civic and electoral processes to strengthen democratic participation.

“We are encouraging women to update their voter registration and be ready to vote. When women come out in large numbers and vote objectively, they will see that their votes truly count,” Okafor said.

She said increased voter registration and turnout among women would strengthen their influence in democratic processes and enhance their representation in decision-making positions.

She also urged eligible women voters to make informed electoral choices and hold elected leaders accountable through consistent civic engagement and participation in governance processes.

Okafor expressed satisfaction with the turnout at the programme, describing participants as enthusiastic and committed to contributing to Nigeria’s democratic development and civic awareness.

“We are happy that these women came out in their numbers. They are excited and ready to be part of the democratic process because they now understand that their votes count,” she said.

Also speaking, WAYCE Board Member, Dr Dorathy Amadi, urged women to recognise the value of their votes and participate actively in elections to strengthen national development and governance.

“No woman, no country; no woman, no husband; no woman, no children; no woman, no nation. Nigeria belongs to all of us and we must come out and build our nation through our votes,” she said.

Mrs Agnes Idikaiwu, a Deputy Director in the Federal Ministry of Health, cautioned Nigerians against accepting inducements during elections and urged them to vote for credible leaders.

Similarly, guest speaker, Dr Theresa Ilegbuna, advised Nigerians not to trade their electoral rights for temporary incentives, emphasising that responsible voting was essential for democracy.

“Have your voter’s card and keep it safe. Do not surrender it to anyone for any reason. Your vote is your power and your voice,” she said.

Ilegbuna further emphasised that increased participation of women in elections would strengthen democratic governance and contribute to national development.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru