By Abubakar Yunusa
The Kimpact Development Initiative in partnership with the Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday unveiled two voter education manuals aimed at boosting civic participation ahead of future elections.
The manuals — the INEC 2026 Voter Education Manual and the Youth-friendly Civic and Voter Education Manual — were formally presented at an event attended by electoral stakeholders and youth representatives.
The youth-focused publication is designed to make civic learning accessible and relatable to Nigeria’s large young population, widely considered crucial to credible elections.
Speaking at the launch, INEC National Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, said the manuals would help address the persistent challenge of voter apathy.
Represented by Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Amupitan lamented low voter turnout.
“For too long, we have accepted a democracy where the 70 per cent who stay at home allow the remaining 30 per cent to decide the future for everyone,” he said.
He added that the initiative goes beyond book production. “We are not just printing books; we are providing the democratic manual every Nigerian needs to protect their future from those who would buy it for a loaf of bread or for any selfish consideration.”
Amupitan stressed that sustained civic enlightenment, particularly on the Electoral Act 2026, would help close trust gaps and improve participation in elections.
In her welcome remarks, KDI Team Lead, Bukola Idowu, expressed pride in supporting INEC to review and update the manuals to reflect young Nigerians’ realities.
“The youth-friendly version places young people at the centre of democratic participation — not just as voters but also as educators, advocates, and change agents within their communities,” she noted.
Also speaking, Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, described the initiative as timely and strategic.
“Through this, we are telling young Nigerians that grassroots strength, communal engagement, and creating a multiplier effect will endure beyond elections,” he said.
He added that the manuals would be integrated into the National Youth Service Corps Community Development Service programme to promote peer-to-peer civic education nationwide.
“The role of civic political education in achieving free, fair and credible elections cannot be overstated,” Issa-Onilu emphasised.
