The Lagos State Government has cancelled the 2025 edition of the Greater Lagos Fiesta, which was scheduled to hold on December 31, 2025, directing residents to instead observe the period with prayers for the state and the nation.
But the action has continued to generate concerns, more so as there was no reason for the sudden cancellation.
Lagosians say the action has created room for conjecture, ranging from, ‘ directive from above, indication of failure in governance, lack of accountability as they say the artistes may have been paid in advance, hence, inability of the officials to reconcile action with confirmed performers, divergent and conflicting interests, among others.
The general consensus, based on our interactions with some residents, is that the action is again, symptomatic of absence of responsibility and accountability in governance at all levels of government in the country, calling for Nigerians to be vigilant.
However, the cancellation was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, following the approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
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According to the statement, the governor directed that in place of the Greater Lagos Fiesta, popularly known as the Countdown 2026 event, Lagosians should “spend quality time in personal prayers for the nation, the State and the people of Lagos.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged residents to pray for “our continued prosperity, leadership, peace, productivity and our continued general wellbeing.”
While wishing Lagosians a happy and prosperous new year, the governor expressed optimism about the coming year, describing 2026 as one that holds great promise for both Lagos State and Nigeria.
“On behalf of my family, I wish every resident of our dear State a happy and prosperous new year,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He assured residents of his administration’s renewed commitment to governance and service delivery, saying, “I want to assure you all that the year 2026 will be a better year for us in the State, as our administration is determined to work twice as hard to deliver the goods for the residents of the state.”
The governor further enjoined Lagosians to continue to live together peacefully, calling for harmony and unity across the state as the new year approaches.
The statement was signed by Akosile on December 30, 2025.