By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – AHEAD of the 2027 general elections, a youth coalition called Youth-led Electoral Reform Project, YERP_Naija, has called on the National Assembly to prioritize electoral reforms that is all inclusive and in the interest of Nigerians.

The call was contained in a New Year message signed by the Executive Director, Kimpact Development Initiative, KDI, ND National Coordinator, YERP_Naija, Bukola Idowu, where efforts by the lawmakers were acknowledged in ensuring that a successful amendment of the Electoral Act.

They also noted the several provisions considered by the House, which reflect long-standing priorities advanced by young Nigerians through sustained advocacy across the six geopolitical zones.

According to him, as of 26 December 2025, progress on electoral reform has remained uneven across the two chambers

of the National Assembly, nothing that “the House of Representatives has completed clause-by-clause consideration and voting on proposed amendments to the Electoral Act. 

He also described it as a significant milestone and reflects commendable legislative engagement that lays a strong foundation for advancing electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections. 

He pointed out that however, the Senate did not commence voting on the electoral reform amendment bills before proceeding on its end-of-year recess. 

Expressing deep concern, YERP_Naija boss said the Senate is scheduled to resume plenary in the second to third week of January 2026, at which point consideration of the bills is expected to begin, and he added that this pause introduces uncertainty into the reform timeline and highlights the importance of maintaining a sustained legislative focus in the weeks ahead.

He said: “As Nigeria steps into 2026, the responsibility before the National Assembly is clear. The decisions taken in the coming weeks will shape not only the conduct of the 2027 elections but also public confidence in democratic institutions for years to come. 

“YERP_Naija respectfully calls on lawmakers to demonstrate leadership, foresight, and patriotism by prioritising electoral reforms that reflect the aspirations of young Nigerians and the broader electorate. 

“These reforms are not partisan demands; they are essential safeguards for democratic stability, peaceful elections, and national cohesion.”

The coalition also called on civil society organisations, the media, youth groups, and community leaders to sustain constructive engagement and public dialogue at the constituency level. 

“Collective vigilance and participation remain essential to ensuring that electoral reforms are concluded in the national interest”, he said.

Meanwhile, he assured that, “As a coalition supported by the National Democratic Institute (NDI), the YERP_Naija Consortium remains committed to advancing a credible, inclusive, and accountable electoral system. 

“We believe that Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads, and the decisions made at this moment will shape the trust of citizens and the legitimacy of future elections. These reforms deserve timely passage, not postponement. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on it.”

However, he cautioned that, “With the statutory timeline for issuing notices of election approaching in the coming months, any further delays could constrain implementation and risk repeating challenges witnessed in previous electoral cycles. 

“Experience has shown that amendments concluded too close to election periods risk being excluded from implementation due to constitutional and international obligations.”