By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigerians, like people around the world, welcomed the New Year 2026 with prayers, fireworks, and celebrations, leaving behind a year marked by economic challenges, political upheavals, deadly attacks, and notable sports victories, particularly from the Super Falcons and D’Tigress.
Across Nigeria, cities from Lagos to Kano, Taraba to Imo, and Bayelsa to Kebbi came alive with fireworks at midnight. Millions attended churches for prayers, praise, and worship, while others gathered at recreational spots with family and friends to usher in the new year. Governors and government officials led messages of hope, pledging renewed efforts to drive progress in their states.
Globally, celebrations began in the Pacific island nation of Kiribati, the first country to ring in 2026. New Zealand, Australia, and major Asian nations including Japan, South Korea, China, and India followed, with festivities gradually moving westward across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Major events included Sydney’s Harbour fireworks, though a moment of silence was observed for victims of a recent Bondi Beach shooting.
The coming year is expected to bring a mix of excitement and challenges. NASA’s Artemis II mission, supported by Elon Musk, plans a crewed lunar flyby more than 50 years after the Apollo missions. The Winter Olympics will take place in Italy’s Dolomites, while the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence faces growing scrutiny from investors questioning the sustainability of its market boom.
2025 closed on a complex note globally. In Russia and Ukraine, conflict continued to cast a shadow over New Year celebrations, with leaders in both countries issuing contrasting messages of hope and military resolve. In Gaza, a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas followed years of war, while Syrians in Damascus celebrated stability since the fall of Bashar al-Assad.
Other events shaped the year’s cultural and political landscape: Donald Trump returned as U.S. president, triggering global market disruptions with a new tariff regime; the Louvre was hit by a daring heist; K-pop sensation BTS returned to the stage; Jane Goodall passed away; and the Vatican selected a new American pope.
In contrast, communities worldwide also celebrated milestones and achievements. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa hosted a spectacular fireworks and laser display, while Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach attracted millions to the world’s largest New Year’s Eve party. Despite hardships, celebrations highlighted resilience and hope as humanity turned the page to 2026.
This year promises a mix of sporting triumphs, space exploration, and technological developments, setting the stage for a year of ambition, discovery, and cautious optimism worldwide.
