Collect your PVCs, NDDC boss urges students

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, has called on students in tertiary institutions across the region to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Ogbuku described the PVC as a vital tool for influencing decisions and electing leaders whose values align with the aspirations of Nigerian youths.

He made the call at the launch of Project New Nigeria and a voter registration sensitisation programme organised by the Foundation for Citizens Empowerment in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Represented by the Director of Social Services, Jeremiah Oritsejolone, Ogbuku said participation in elections demonstrates citizens’ belief in a country with the potential to grow and develop.

He noted that Nigerian youths are the heartbeat of the new Nigeria that everyone seeks, adding that their energy, brilliance and voice would determine the direction the nation takes.

“For your voice to be heard, you must collect your PVC as the process gives you the opportunity to influence decisions, shape governance and demand accountability,” Ogbuku said.

He stated that since assuming office, the commission has sustained transformation and capacity-building programmes across the Niger Delta, and encouraged students to register and collect their PVCs ahead of future elections.

The NDDC boss added that the interventionist agency would continue to support initiatives that promote civic participation and empower young people.

Earlier, the Convener of Project New Nigeria, Samuel Okani, said the initiative was designed to complement government efforts to strengthen democracy through voter education.

Okani explained that the exercise was being carried out in all universities in the region to give orientation and broaden students’ understanding of the need to collect their PVCs and actively participate in voting.

He expressed optimism that the programme would be sustained in the coming years.