Abia Traditional Rulers Begin Statewide Mobilisation Over Low NIN and PVC Registration

Traditional leaders in Abia State have raised concerns over the state’s low participation level in national registration exercises and have now commenced a coordinated mobilisation effort to address the situation.

Speaking during a council meeting held in Umuahia on Monday, the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, disclosed that monarchs across the state have agreed to actively mobilise residents to register for the National Identification Number (NIN) and obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs).

The meeting was attended by principal officers of the Council as well as chairmen representing traditional rulers from all 17 local government areas of Abia State. During deliberations, the traditional institutions expressed dissatisfaction with the current registration statistics, noting that the figures do not reflect the size and population strength of the state.

According to the monarchs, Abia risks being placed at a disadvantage in important national processes if the low registration trend continues. They stressed that it is unacceptable for the state to trail behind others in exercises that directly influence representation, planning, and development.

Eze Mbah explained that the traditional rulers unanimously resolved to assume direct responsibility for encouraging eligible residents, especially citizens 18 years and above, who are yet to complete their NIN and voter registration processes.

The Council emphasized that its goal is for Abia State to emerge among states with the highest number of registered citizens nationwide. They clarified that the initiative is not driven by personal motives or political interests, but rather by the collective interest of the state and its long-term development.

To achieve this, the Council announced plans to deploy a grassroots-driven strategy, extending mobilisation activities beyond the state level to zones, local government areas, and autonomous communities. This approach, they said, is aimed at ensuring that no eligible resident is excluded from the registration process.

In addition, the traditional rulers disclosed that they intend to evaluate the availability and sufficiency of registration facilities across the state. This includes assessing equipment, manpower, and logistical support by visiting offices where NIN and PVC registrations are conducted, with the aim of identifying gaps that may be hindering wider participation.