The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day and announced a restriction of movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday ahead of the Area Council elections scheduled for February 21.

Wike made the announcement in a broadcast on Thursday, urging residents to turn out in large numbers to vote for candidates of their choice.

The directive was contained in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.

According to the minister, the measures were approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to enable residents to travel to their communities and participate fully in the polls.

He called on voters to conduct themselves peacefully and lawfully, stressing the need to respect electoral rules and outcomes.

Wike also commended President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law, describing it as a step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.

He expressed optimism that the elections would produce quality leaders capable of promoting development, peace, and prosperity in the FCT.