INEC announces that the PVC collection ongoing only in FCT, is for the February 21, 2026, Area Council elections.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that the ongoing Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection exercise applies only to residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of the February 21, 2026, Area Council elections.
INEC made the clarification on Thursday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, urging residents of other states not to rely on unverified information regarding PVC collection in their areas.
The commission explained that the exercise was specifically organised for the forthcoming FCT Area Council elections and does not extend to other states at this time.
“Dear residents of other states, the current PVC collection exercise applies only to the FCT, ahead of the February 21, 2026, Area Council Election,” the statement read.
INEC had earlier announced the commencement of PVC distribution in the FCT, calling on eligible voters to collect their cards in preparation for the polls. According to the commission, PVC collection in the FCT is scheduled to take place at voters’ respective Registration Areas (wards) from January 22 to January 26, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.
The electoral body added that voters who are unable to collect their PVCs at their wards within the stipulated period would be allowed to do so later at INEC Area Council offices across the FCT.
However, INEC emphasised that no dates have been fixed for PVC collection in other states, assuring Nigerians that official announcements would be made once schedules are finalised.
Read Also:
INEC opens portal for media accreditation for bye-election in Rivers
INEC summons PDP factions for crisis talks in Abuja
Delta, INEC express worry over low turnout for voter registration
“For other states, the dates for PVC collection have not yet been fixed by the Commission,” INEC stated. “Once the schedule is finalised, it will be officially announced on all INEC platforms.”
The commission appealed to voters outside the FCT to remain patient and avoid misinformation, stressing the importance of relying only on official communication.
“We urge all eligible voters in other states to wait for official communication and avoid relying on unverified information. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” the statement added.
The clarification forms part of INEC’s efforts to ensure transparency, proper planning, and orderly electoral processes ahead of upcoming elections nationwide.
