By Nkechi Eze
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Taraba State, Dr Sa’ad Umar Idris, has embarked on a two-day advocacy and stakeholder engagement tour aimed at strengthening collaboration ahead of the 2027 general elections and mobilising support for the ongoing Phase III of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
The visits, which covered security agencies, paramilitary organisations and key government institutions across the state, also served as a platform to sensitise stakeholders on the resumption of the voter registration exercise which commenced on May 11 and is expected to end on July 10, 2026.
During the engagements, Dr Idris appealed to the various organisations to support INEC’s voter education and sensitisation campaign by using their institutional platforms to encourage eligible Nigerians to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of future elections.
The REC emphasised the importance of synergy among stakeholders in ensuring credible, peaceful and transparent elections in the state.
On the first day of the tour, the REC visited the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
At the various institutions, Dr Idris highlighted the critical role of security agencies as members of the Inter-Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), noting that the committee plays a strategic role in coordinating election security and advising on measures necessary for peaceful polls.
At the NOA and NYSC offices, the REC sought stronger collaboration in the areas of voter enlightenment and civic education, stressing the importance of sustained public awareness on electoral participation.
He also underscored the significant contribution of NYSC members to election management, noting that corps members constitute a major part of the ad hoc workforce deployed by INEC during elections.
On the second day of the advocacy visits, Dr Idris visited the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Federal Fire Service, the Headquarters of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army in Jalingo and the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The engagements, according to INEC officials, form part of ongoing efforts by the Commission to deepen stakeholder participation and strengthen institutional cooperation as preparations gradually intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The visits also highlighted the REC’s strategic approach towards the planning, administration and coordination of electoral activities in Taraba State.
