Police in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, say thousands of security personnel have been deployed across the territory ahead of the 21 February 2026 Area Council elections.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command said the operation forms part of a comprehensive security plan designed to ensure a peaceful vote.
The deployment includes personnel from other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Miller G. Dantawaye, said officers had been instructed to maintain professionalism and provide adequate security at polling units and collation centres.
He urged security personnel to remain vigilant, impartial and courteous, while respecting the rights of citizens throughout the electoral process.
The police also announced that movement will be restricted across the FCT from 06:00 to 18:00 local time on election day. The restriction will not apply to essential service providers and accredited election officials.
Residents have been advised to comply with security directives and to conduct themselves peacefully. Authorities say measures are in place to guarantee a free and fair election.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report suspicious activity to the police using designated emergency numbers.