Ahead of the February 21 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, the Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day to enable residents travel to their respective communities to participate in the exercise.

Wike also announced a restriction of movement across the FCT from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, with security agencies directed to ensure strict compliance.

The minister made the disclosure in a broadcast aired on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urging residents to turn out en masse to elect chairmen and councillors for the six area councils.

Describing the election as a critical moment in the democratic journey of the territory, he called on eligible voters to approach the exercise with a sense of responsibility and orderliness.

“On Saturday, February 21, we will all have a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our great Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

He stressed the need for peaceful conduct before, during and after the polls, urging residents to respect electoral rules, fellow citizens and the eventual outcome of the election.

“At this juncture, with the approval of the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a work-free day,” Wike stated.

He added that the President had equally approved the restriction of movement within the territory within the stipulated hours to guarantee a smooth electoral process.

The minister commended Tinubu for recently signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law, noting that the gesture underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections.

According to him, Nigeria’s democracy remains a work in progress, stressing that continuous review of the Electoral Act would further consolidate the nation’s democratic gains.

Wike expressed optimism that the elections would produce competent leaders capable of advancing development, peace and prosperity in the FCT, urging residents to make their voices heard at the polls.