By Jimoh Babatunde

Major cities of the world welcomed 2025 with spectacular light shows, music and cultural display.

Lagos State was not left out with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, ushered in the year in spectacular fashion across the five divisions of Lagos, Ikorodu, , Agege , Epe and Lagos Island.

The iconic Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos was the centre of attraction as Lagosians and tourists flocked there to catch glimpse of renowned artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Seyi Vibez, iconic rapper Olamide, and Adewale Ayuba among other artists.

Speaking on the event, the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the Greater Lagos Countdown as a unique platform to unify Lagosians while celebrating the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the state.

“This end-of-year celebration is more than an event; it is a tribute to the dynamic spirit of Lagos and its people. With music, dance, food, and a breathtaking fireworks display, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience for everyone,” she said.

Indeed, it was an unforgettable experience for those on ground as there were cultural displays, food fairs, and other activities showcasing the essence of Lagos before the hour of 12 am that ushered Lagosians to the year 2025 with stunning fireworks display.

Earlier, Sanwo-Olu appreciated Lagos residents for demonstrating resilience throughout 2024.

Sanwo-Olu said, “It is indeed another honour to be here at the Tafawa Balewa Square for the countdown from 2024 to 2025. Last year, we were all together, and this year, even bigger, better, and brighter.

“We are all together at the Tafawa Balewa Square for the countdown to the year 2025. I want to say that indeed this outgoing year was a year of tremendous opportunities for the young.

“It is a year that you have shown true resilience that makes you true Lagosians. If we are together we can succeed together.

“So, for your resilience and productivity, I want to say thank you for staying with our government throughout the year 2024, and we wish all of us as we go into 2025 that the very best will happen to every one of us.

“2025 will be a better year for you, and for you. To my people in Ajeromi, Ajegunle, Victoria Island, Ajah, Ibeji-Lekki, Ojokoro, and Oworoshoki, we will see you bigger and better in 2025.”

Amidst the fireworks display, tourists and Lagosians were thrilled by Wizkid, known for his captivating stage presence, who got the audience singing along to his hit tracks.

Tiwa Savage, the Queen of Afrobeats, delivered a sultry and energetic set, showcasing her impressive vocal range and captivating stage presence.

Niniola, the soulful songstress, delivered a heartfelt and emotive performance, showcasing her powerful vocals.

Fuji Maestro, Adewale Ayuba, took his fans to a heightened level of excitement as he performed his old musicals like “Ejo”, “Ijo Fuji”, and others.

Nice also brought back the “Alapomeji” vibes back on stage with ‘steeze’.

Burna Boy’s energy and passion on statge was cut short as a fan jumped on stage leading Burna Boy abandoning to his performance abruptly.

Apart from that minor incident, the packaging of the event was world class with robust security measures put in place for the safety and comfort of attendees.

The Greater Lagos Countdown was indeed a testament to Lagos State’s tradition of ending the year on a high note and welcoming the New Year with grandeur and style.