The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has called on Nigerians to rise to their civic duty by actively participating in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Hayab, described voter registration as “the first and most decisive step for citizens who truly want their voices to count in governance.”
He urged Nigerians to dispel doubts about the power of their votes, warning that voter apathy only strengthens politicians who thrive on low turnout.
> “Our votes count. If votes were useless, no one would attempt to buy them. Nigerians should understand that the real power lies in the ballot and not in the money shared during elections,” Rev. Hayab declared.
The cleric stressed the need for massive sensitisation, urging religious leaders across faiths to use their pulpits, congregations, and community platforms to mobilise citizens. According to him, faith-based institutions remain one of the strongest channels for grassroots awareness.
Rev. Hayab also appealed to INEC to decentralise the process by bringing registration centres closer to rural and hard-to-reach communities, ensuring inclusivity and convenience for all eligible Nigerians.
INEC had earlier announced that its online pre-registration portal opened on August 18, 2025, while physical registration commenced on August 25, 2025. The nationwide exercise, which will run until August 30, 2026, covers fresh registration, transfer of voting locations, and replacement of lost or damaged voter cards. The commission, however, cautioned against multiple registrations, reiterating that it remains illegal.
According to official figures, more than 1.3 million Nigerians completed their online pre-registration within the first week, with young people aged 18 to 34 making up the majority of applicants—a development analysts say could redefine Nigeria’s political landscape if sustained.
Rev. Hayab particularly called on youths and women to seize the opportunity, describing them as “critical drivers of a new Nigeria.”
> “Selling your vote is selling your conscience and your tomorrow. We must reject inducements and stand firm for a nation built on justice, peace, and progress,” he cautioned.
He assured that Northern CAN would continue to collaborate with churches, civil society organisations, and community leaders to ensure that no eligible Nigerian is left behind in the registration process.
“With unity, vigilance, and participation, Nigerians can shape a brighter tomorrow. The ballot remains our strongest weapon for change,” Hayab affirmed.
PIONEER NEWS 