The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has inaugurated a new cohort of Youth Ambassadors to deepen youth engagement and promote informed, peaceful and responsible participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The investiture ceremony brought together INEC National Commissioners, senior officials, government agencies, development partners, returning ambassadors and the newly selected Youth Ambassadors.
Chairman of the Outreach and Partnership Committee, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, described the initiative as a platform for strengthening INEC’s relationship with young Nigerians, who form a major constituency in the electoral process.
Ajayi said the appointment was not just a title but a responsibility, urging the ambassadors to use their influence to promote voter participation, peaceful conduct and accurate electoral information.
Representing INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, National Commissioner Prof. Rhoda Gumus said the Commission recognised the influence and capacity of young Nigerians to shape the electoral process.
She said Nigeria’s large youth population could only translate into meaningful democratic participation when supported by accurate information, organisation and responsibility.
Gumus urged the ambassadors to address the reasons some young Nigerians disengage from elections, including lack of information, distrust, political frustration and misunderstanding of electoral procedures.
She also charged them to tackle misinformation and disinformation on social media, urging them to adopt the principle, “Verify before you amplify.”
The National Commissioner warned young Nigerians against being used to perpetrate electoral violence, saying those recruited into violent activities often end up as victims through death, injuries, arrest and the destruction of their future.
“Do not allow anyone to use your youth against your future,” she said.
Gumus urged the ambassadors to promote peaceful engagement between young voters, political parties and candidates, particularly on issues such as employment, education, security, economic opportunities and skills development.
She said young Nigerians should be encouraged to ask questions, demand accurate information and participate constructively in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.