INEC Schedules FCT Area Council Elections for February 21, 2026
Abuja, Nigeria – February 21, 2025: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections will take place on February 21, 2026. The elections will determine the leadership of the six area councils in the FCT, including the positions of chairmen and councilors.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the announcement in Abuja during a consultative meeting with political parties, stating that the commission has mapped out a comprehensive electoral timeline to ensure a smooth and credible process.
Electoral Timeline and Preparations
According to INEC, the electoral process will kick off with political party primaries, scheduled to take place between June 9 and June 30, 2025. Parties are expected to conclude their candidate nominations in line with the electoral guidelines before the submission deadline.
Additionally, INEC will commence voter education campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and security arrangements to guarantee a free, fair, and transparent election. The electoral body has urged political parties, candidates, and voters to adhere strictly to electoral laws to avoid disruptions in the process.
Security and Logistics
The commission assured residents of the FCT that adequate security measures would be put in place to prevent electoral violence and ensure the safety of voters and election officials. INEC will collaborate with security agencies, civil society organizations, and international observers to monitor the elections and maintain electoral integrity.
The FCT Area Council elections are significant as they will determine the leadership at the grassroots level, impacting governance and service delivery in local communities. The six area councils—Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abuja Municipal—play a vital role in policy implementation, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
INEC has encouraged all eligible residents to participate actively by registering to vote and ensuring their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are up to date ahead of the election.
With this announcement, political activities in the FCT are expected to intensify as parties and candidates prepare for the upcoming elections. INEC has reiterated its commitment to conducting a credible election and has urged all stakeholders to play their roles responsibly in ensuring a peaceful democratic process.
More updates on the election preparations will be provided as the process unfolds.
