The Lagos State Government has announced the cancellation of the 2025 edition of the Greater Lagos Fiesta, also known as Countdown, citing the challenges confronting the nation. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu decided to call off the event, which was supposed to take place on December 31, 2025, and encouraged locals to utilize the time for private prayers for the country, the state, and the people of Lagos. Gboyega Akosile, the governor's special adviser on media and publicity, made the announcement on Tuesday.
Sanwo-Olu urged Lagosians to use the time they would have spent at the event to pray at their homes and places of worship for the nation's ongoing prosperity, leadership, peace, productivity, and overall well-being, according to the statement.
The governor expressed hope that 2026 would be a better year for Lagos State and Nigeria while wishing locals a happy and successful New Year. “On behalf of my family, I wish every resident of our dear state a happy and prosperous New Year,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He reassured the populace that his administration was still dedicated to enhancing their well-being and that the state government would step up its efforts in the upcoming year to offer the benefits of democracy. “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,” he said.
The governor also called on Lagosians to continue to coexist peacefully as the state moves into the new year.