UNICAL GRADUATES ELITE CLUB SENSITIZES FCT RESIDENTS ON VOTER REGISTRATION
By: Akuta Shedrack and Okwori Gloria
The University of Calabar Graduates Elite Club (UCGEC), in partnership with the Area Councils Services Secretariat and Abuja Market Management, has launched a voter education and sensitization campaign across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to encourage eligible residents to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The initiative, which commenced in major markets within the FCT, aims to promote civic participation and increase voter registration ahead of future electoral activities.
Speaking during the sensitization exercise in Abuja, the President of the University of Calabar Graduates Elite Club, Dr. Chioma Uzo-Udegbunan, said the campaign was designed to educate buyers, sellers, stakeholders, and other members of the public on the importance of voter registration and active participation in the democratic process.
According to her, the exercise became necessary following a growing number of inquiries from residents about the ongoing voter registration, including questions about registration procedures, timelines, and extension periods.
“The University of Calabar Graduates Elite Club is committed to enlightening citizens on their civic rights and responsibilities. We are here to encourage everyone, especially those within the market environment, to register and obtain their voter cards because it is their fundamental right as Nigerians,” she said.
Dr. Uzo-Udegbunan explained that public sensitization on issues affecting society forms part of the Club’s objectives and is embedded in its constitution.
She noted that the increasing demand for information on voter registration highlighted the need for broader awareness, particularly as the registration extension period draws to a close.
“I receive numerous questions about the duration of the extension and what citizens need to do to complete their registration. We felt it was important to take this information directly to the people, especially those who may not have easy access to it,” she added.
The UCGEC President stated that the collaboration with the Area Councils Services Secretariat and Abuja Market Management was intended to bridge the information gap and provide residents with accurate guidance on the voter registration process.
She described the choice of markets as strategic, noting that they offer an effective platform for reaching large numbers of people within a short period.
“Markets are gathering points for thousands of residents daily. Conducting the sensitization exercise here allows us to reach a broad audience and ensure that the message gets to as many people as possible,” she said.
Dr. Uzo-Udegbunan disclosed that the campaign would cover key markets across the FCT, including Garki Model Market, Garki International Market, and Wuse Market.
She stressed that voter registration, possession of a Permanent Voter Card, and participation in elections are constitutional rights that every eligible Nigerian should exercise.
“We want residents to understand that registering to vote is not just a right but also a responsibility. Active participation in elections is essential for strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring good governance,” she said.
The UCGEC President also appealed to residents who may not be directly reached through the campaign to take personal responsibility for obtaining their PVCs and participating in the electoral process.
“To those we may not be able to meet physically during this exercise, we urge them not to be discouraged. It is your civic duty to register, obtain your voter card, and exercise your right to vote. Together, we can contribute to building a stronger democracy,” she stated.
The sensitization campaign is expected to continue across selected markets and communities within the FCT as stakeholders intensify efforts to increase voter awareness and participation in the electoral process.
