The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recorded a significant increase in voter registration in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with the number of eligible voters rising from 1,373,492 in 2022 to 1,680,315 ahead of the February 21, 2026, Area Council elections.
This represents an increase of 306,823 voters, highlighting growing interest in the electoral process. According to INEC, the revised Register of Voters for the FCT reveals a total of 1,680,315 registered voters, up from 1,570,307 in 2023.
The revision process involved biometric deduplication, display for claims and objections, and compilation of a supplementary list. Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the FCT, Malam Aminu Idris, described the exercise as a critical constitutional requirement.
INEC is prepared for the elections, with plans to monitor party primaries, publish final candidate lists, and activate the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) for new registrants are ready for collection.
However, challenges persist, including logistical issues, voter apathy, and security concerns. INEC plans to address these through enhanced voter education, improved planning, and stakeholder engagement.
The Commission encourages eligible citizens to participate in shaping their communities’ future. The CVR exercise has resumed in Anambra State, ahead of the 2027 General Election