The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Election, scheduled to take place on February 21, 2026.
According to a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, a total of 637 candidates from 17 political parties met the required criteria, including the successful upload of nomination forms before the August 11, 2025 deadline.
The published list includes comprehensive details such as the names, political affiliations, ages, gender and academic qualifications of all cleared candidates.
It is now available on INEC’s website and social media platforms.
“The Commission hereby publishes the final list of candidates that will contest in the 2026 FCT Area Council Election. With this publication, no further withdrawal or substitution will be accepted, except in the event of the death of a candidate or running mate before the election, as provided in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” Olumekun said.
This final list follows the earlier public display of candidates’ personal information on August 18, 2025, as mandated by law following the conclusion of party primaries.
Candidates will contest for a total of 68 positions, including six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship slots across the six area councils of the FCT: Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali and Abaji.
