Following the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections on February 21, 2026, a coalition of accredited election observers has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance electoral integrity practices. In their statement released after the election, they commended the largely peaceful nature of the polls while emphasizing the need for reforms to better align the electoral process with international best practices.

The joint statement was supported by various organizations including the Initiative for the Awareness of Civic Education of Citizens and others, highlighting a broad consensus on the need for improvements in the electoral framework. The observers pointed out specific areas for enhancement that they believe are essential for restoring public trust and ensuring a credible electoral process in Nigeria.

As Nigeria navigates its democratic journey, the call for strengthening electoral integrity comes at a crucial time, with ongoing concerns about transparency and fairness in elections. Such recommendations from credible observer groups signal an opportunity for INEC to reaffirm its commitment to upholding democratic values and addressing any shortcomings identified during the recent elections, ultimately contributing to a more robust electoral democracy in the country.