President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the winners of Saturday’s elections conducted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and in parts of Kano and Rivers States, describing the outcomes as a testament to the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on February 22, 2026, the President commended the successful conduct of the polls and urged those elected to regard their mandates as a sacred trust bestowed upon them by the people.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted elections across the six area councils of the FCT, alongside by-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II state constituencies in Rivers State. Additional by-elections were also held in Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
President Tinubu extended his congratulations to the victorious candidates, calling on them to serve with humility, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to their constituents. He emphasized that electoral victory confers not merely authority, but responsibility — one rooted in accountability and service.
“The mandate given by the people is a sacred trust,” the President stated, urging the winners to prioritise the welfare of citizens and the strengthening of democratic governance at the grassroots and state levels.
The President also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as remarkable developmental strides in the FCT. According to the statement, these efforts have translated into tangible political gains for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the territory.
Tinubu noted that infrastructural improvements, administrative reforms, and visible governance initiatives in the FCT have enhanced public confidence and contributed to the party’s electoral performance in the area council polls.
In addition to congratulating the candidates, the President acknowledged the role of the APC’s national leadership and state chapters in Kano and Rivers for what he termed strategic mobilisation and effective party organisation. He praised party members and supporters for their commitment throughout the campaign and electoral processes.
The statement framed the victories as an affirmation of the party’s grassroots strength and its continued appeal to voters across different regions of the country.
Beyond partisan considerations, President Tinubu lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission for overseeing what he described as peaceful and successful elections. He commended the electoral body for its logistical coordination and adherence to established guidelines.
The President also acknowledged the contributions of security agencies deployed during the elections, noting their professionalism and vigilance in maintaining order and safeguarding voters, election officials, and materials.
Equally, he praised Nigerian voters for their participation and peaceful conduct at polling units. According to him, democracy thrives when citizens exercise their civic rights responsibly and engage constructively in the political process.
President Tinubu further commended all contestants in the elections, including those who did not emerge victorious. He highlighted the importance of healthy political competition in strengthening democratic culture and institutional development.
“Democracy is enriched by the vibrancy of participation and competition,” the statement quoted him as saying, underscoring the value of inclusive engagement in the political arena.
The President affirmed that the successful conduct of the elections reinforces Nigeria’s democratic credentials and contributes to the consolidation of democratic norms. He described credible elections as foundational to public trust in governance and national stability.
While commending INEC, Tinubu encouraged the commission to continue refining its processes and enhancing transparency, efficiency, and technological integration in future electoral exercises. He stressed the importance of continuous improvement to ensure that Nigeria’s electoral system meets both domestic expectations and international standards.
The elections in the FCT area councils are considered significant due to the capital territory’s strategic political relevance, while the by-elections in Kano and Rivers States attracted attention because of their potential implications for local legislative dynamics and party influence in those regions.
Political observers note that by-elections often serve as indicators of prevailing political sentiment between general election cycles. Saturday’s polls, conducted across multiple constituencies, provided parties an opportunity to test their grassroots structures and voter engagement strategies.
In his concluding remarks, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to democratic governance and institutional strengthening. He expressed optimism that those elected would work collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels to advance development, promote unity, and deliver measurable outcomes for their communities.
The President’s message positions the elections as both a political achievement for the ruling party and a broader institutional milestone for Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
As newly elected officials prepare to assume office, attention is expected to shift toward governance priorities, policy implementation, and the fulfilment of campaign promises — tasks that, as the President emphasised, require humility, patriotism, and steadfast dedication to public service.
