ABUJA — The All Progressives Congress swept key local elections in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory on Saturday, February 21, 2026, securing chairmanship wins in five area councils and drawing praise from party leader Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as validation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic overhaul.

Yilwatda, the APC national chairman, issued a statement Sunday through his special adviser Abimbola Tooki. He described the outcomes in the FCT, Kano and Rivers as a ‘resounding endorsement’ of Tinubu’s governance path. Party candidates triumphed in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Kuje, Abaji, Bwari and Kwali, according to the statement.

“The Abuja election is a powerful statement by Nigerians from all walks of life that they stand firmly with President Tinubu and his bold reform agenda,” Yilwatda said. He pointed to FCT residents’ votes as carrying national weight, signaling broad support for policies aimed at sustainable growth.

Additional APC successes came in state House of Assembly races, with four candidates winning seats in Kano and Rivers states. Yilwatda credited the results to the party’s grassroots strength and effective organization. He also noted a Peoples Democratic Party victory in Gwagwalada’s chairmanship race, calling it evidence that democracy prevailed and voters’ choices were honored.

The chairman congratulated supporters, leaders and stakeholders in the three areas for their discipline during the polls. Security agencies and election officials earned his commendation for professionalism, he added. Polls passed peacefully across the board.

Yilwatda urged APC members to stay united amid the celebrations. “The message from the people is clear: they want results, accountability and continued reforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” his statement said. The party pledged not to let Nigerians down.

These elections tested Tinubu’s popularity months into reforms that have sparked protests over rising fuel prices and living costs. APC dominance in the capital, home to government workers and diverse residents, stands out. Opposition voices have criticized the changes as harsh, but Yilwatda framed the vote as public buy-in.

In Kano, a northern powerhouse, and Rivers in the oil-rich south, the assembly wins bolster APC influence ahead of larger contests. Party officials see momentum building. Yilwatda’s remarks underscore efforts to tie local gains to national leadership.