![Hon. Festus Keyamo SAN arrives MMIA past 11:50 p.m. Feb 23 to lead oversight of Terminal 1 fire. Joined FAAN MD & team actively managing situation. Directed morning inspection Tuesday to guide restoration & confirm safety standards. Reaffirmed focus on passenger safety. Story: [link] #KeyamoMMIA #FireIncident #FAAN](https://fullcliphq.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/mym-150x150.jpg "MMIA Fire: Keyamo Inspects Lagos Airport After Terminal 1 Blaze Disrupts Flights")
Ahead of Saturday’s Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, Minister Nyesom Wike has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day and ordered a full restriction of movement from 8:00 p.m. on Friday until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21.
The minister made the announcement in a nationwide broadcast carried on television and radio Thursday evening. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved both measures to facilitate voter participation and ensure a secure, orderly process across the six area councils.
Wike appealed to FCT residents to turn out in large numbers and vote for their preferred candidates, describing the election as a vital chance to influence the territory’s future. He stressed the importance of conducting themselves peacefully, respecting the rules, one another, and the eventual outcome.
“Let us demonstrate maturity and responsibility,” he said, urging the electorate to show the world that Nigeria’s democracy is capable of dignity and decorum. He reiterated that the polls would elect chairmen and councillors for Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abaji area councils.
Security and Logistics
The work-free day aims to allow residents to travel to their communities and prepare for voting without work-related constraints. The movement restriction, enforceable by all security agencies, is intended to minimize disruptions, prevent violence, and enable smooth logistics for electoral officials, observers, and voters.
Wike thanked President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 into law earlier this week, calling it a clear signal of the administration’s dedication to improving electoral integrity. He noted that the updated legislation strengthens institutions and promotes transparency, and that the ongoing evolution of the electoral framework is part of building a stronger democratic system.
INEC Preparedness
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that 1,680,315 registered voters are eligible to participate across 2,822 polling units. The FCT polls will be the first major test of the new 2026 Electoral Act provisions in a real election setting. INEC will also conduct bye-elections the same day in Rivers State (Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies) and Kano State (Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies).
The minister closed by expressing hope that the elections would produce credible leaders committed to peace, development, and prosperity in the FCT. He encouraged every eligible resident to make their voice count on Saturday.
The measures align with standard practice for high-stakes elections in Nigeria, where work-free days and temporary restrictions help reduce logistical challenges and enhance security. Residents have been advised to stock essential supplies and plan movements accordingly.
