Abuja residents woke up to unexpected but important news this week as Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day across the Nigerian capital. The announcement came just ahead of the Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21 — and it has sparked widespread reaction.

What Wike Declared

In a special broadcast on national television and radio on Thursday, Wike said the work-free day was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The aim, he explained, is to give residents enough time to travel to their home communities, prepare to vote, and participate fully in the democratic process.

The FCT Minister also announced a restriction of movement within Abuja from 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21. During this period, only essential activities and accredited election personnel are allowed to move freely — a security measure meant to ensure a peaceful and orderly election day.