Ahead of Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, a civic organization, De Ambassadors Global Network, DAGN, has launched an initiative tagged ‘Operation PVC’, aimed at encouraging more Nigerians to participate in the democratic process.
The initiative is part of engagements designed to mark Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, which comes up on October 1, 2026.
Voter apathy has been a major challenge in elections since Nigeria returned to civil rule in 1999. The initiative involves a three-week nationwide media and civic engagement during Nigerians would be encouraged to get their PVCs and participate actively in elections.
In a statement released on Sunday, DAGN described the nationwide media and civic engagement as a transformative mission with the objective of ensuring that Nigerians tell Nigeria’s story in their own voice.
In collaboration with the African University of Science and Technology and others, the three-week nationwide media and civic engagement “is designed to inspire reflection, recognition, participation and national pride”, the statement explained.
According to DAGN, the initiative represents a movement aimed at reshaping the narrative of Nigeria through the experiences, achievements and aspirations of its people.
“For decades, Nigeria’s story has often been defined by fragmented headlines, political discourse, economic statistics, and external perceptions. Yet beyond those narratives exists another Nigeria — driven by resilience, innovation, creativity, enterprise, leadership, and hope”, the organisation said.
A major highlight of the initiative is the Nigeria National Digital Youth Talent Challenge, a nationwide platform designed to discover, elevate and reward young Nigerian talent across creative, digital sporting and innovation sectors.
Categories include music, football, basketball, shirt film, skits and comedy, art, fashion, as well as technology and innovation.
To demonstrate the importance of PVCs and voting, in a democratic engagement model, Nigerians across the country and the diaspora will participate directly in selecting winners in the various categories, according to the statement.
“Nigerians will decide through their votes,” DAGN said, noting that voting will determine finalists and category of winners. It explained that the approach will ensure transparency, inclusion, and nationwide ownership of the process.
Winners of the Nigeria National Digital Youth Talent Challenge will receive cash prizes and startup/creative funding support, professional contracts with industry partners and collaborators, as well as national and international exposure opportunities.
“For the first time at this scale, Nigerians will actively participate in selecting and recognising individuals, organisations and stories that represent the spirit of modern Nigeria,” the statement added.
