Friday, February 20, 2026, Marked Work‑Free Day as FCT Residents Prepare for Saturday’s Elections and Temporary Movement Restrictions Implemented
Residents of the FCT will observe a newly declared public holiday following an announcement by the Minister of FCT towards Saturday Elections.
The Minister declared Friday, February 20, 2026, as a work-free day across the nation’s capital ahead of the scheduled FCT Area Council elections. The decision, according to the FCT Administration, is aimed at allowing residents adequate time to prepare for the polls and to encourage full participation in the democratic process.
In addition to the public holiday, the FCT Administration also announced a temporary restriction on movement beginning from 8:00 p.m. on Friday until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The restriction is intended to ensure security, smooth electoral logistics, and orderly conduct during the elections.
The development is expected to affect government offices, private businesses, schools, banks, and other institutions within Abuja, while essential service providers such as security agencies, healthcare workers, and emergency responders are expected to remain operational.
Political observers say the declaration underscores the importance of the 2026 FCT Area Council elections, which will determine leadership across the six area councils of the capital territory. Residents have been urged to comply with the movement guidelines and turn out peacefully to exercise their civic rights.
The FCT Administration reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible and transparent electoral process, calling on all stakeholders to support efforts toward a peaceful and orderly election in Abuja.
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