This article examines the nexus between political apathy and the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Nigeria, and how that relationship shapes voter turnout. The paper was motivated by the paradox of rising registration and PVC collection alongside historically low participation, the study asks why citizens register but often fail to convert registration into votes and what institutional responses might reverse this trend. Using a qualitative, descriptive approach based on systematic review of secondary sources INEC reports, survey data, observer statements, and scholarly literature the paper identifies the principal drivers of apathy, assesses the link between PVC uptake and turnout, and proposes policy responses. Findings show that apathy is multi-causal (distrust, perceived corruption, insecurity, bureaucratic friction) and that a pronounced “PVC paradox” exists: higher collection rates have not translated into greater turnout. Analysis through the lenses of Rational Choice and Political Efficacy indicates that weakened state capacity and a perceived breach of reciprocal obligations underpin withdrawal from electoral participation. The study concludes that technical fixes to registration and distribution must be paired with measures that rebuild credibility transparent result management, targeted civic education, and security guarantees to lower participation costs and restore citizens’ sense of political efficacy. These combined reforms are essential to transform symbolic registration into substantive democratic engagement.