Femi Ashekun/
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s decision to cancel the 2025 edition of the Greater Lagos Fiesta has triggered widespread disappointment among Lagosians, with many residents taking to social media to lament the loss of one of the state’s most anticipated year-end events.
The annual fiesta, traditionally held on December 31 to usher in the new year, has grown into a major cultural and entertainment fixture in Lagos, attracting large crowds to countdown concerts, fireworks and live performances across several locations.
For many, it also provides a rare moment of collective relief at the end of a difficult year.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor approved the cancellation and directed that, in place of the Greater Lagos Fiesta, residents should spend the period in personal prayers for Nigeria, Lagos State and its people.
Sanwo-Olu urged Lagosians to pray for continued prosperity, leadership, peace, productivity and general wellbeing, presenting the move as a time for reflection rather than celebration.
The announcement, however, was met with an outpouring of disappointment online.
Many commentators described the cancellation as a blow to an event that had become part of Lagos’ cultural identity, while others pointed to the economic implications for entertainers, small businesses and vendors who depend on the fiesta for end-of-year income.
Some residents also questioned the decision to cancel an event that many had already factored into their festive plans.
Despite the backlash, the governor sought to reassure residents about the year ahead, wishing Lagosians a happy and prosperous 2026 and expressing optimism about the state’s future.
“On behalf of my family, I wish every resident of our dear State a happy and prosperous new year. 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,” Sanwo-Olu said.
While the government has framed the cancellation as a call to prayer and national reflection, the reaction from residents underscores the emotional, social and economic significance the Greater Lagos Fiesta holds for many Lagosians.
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