The Greater Lagos Countdown, an annual New Year’s Eve celebration orchestrated by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, transformed the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square into a pulsating hub of music, excitement, and festive cheer. The 2024 edition, marking the transition into 2025, proved to be an unforgettable spectacle, drawing a diverse crowd united by their shared love for music and the anticipation of a fresh start. The event featured a stellar lineup of Nigeria’s top musical talents, promising a night of electrifying performances and unforgettable moments.
Headlining the event were Afrobeats giants Wizkid and Burna Boy, whose captivating stage presence and energetic performances ignited the crowd. Wizkid, renowned for his infectious hits, had the audience singing along to every word, while Burna Boy infused the night with his signature fiery passion and dynamic stagecraft. Complementing these powerhouses was Tiwa Savage, the reigning Queen of Afrobeats, who delivered a mesmerizing set showcasing her impressive vocal range and captivating stage presence. Her performance added a touch of sultry elegance and vibrant energy to the already electrifying atmosphere.
Adding to the diverse musical tapestry were performances by Niniola, Olamide, Adewale Ayuba, Runtown, Bnxn, Nice, Seyi Vibez, and a host of other talented artists. Niniola, with her soulful voice, brought a wave of heartfelt emotion to the stage, captivating the audience with her powerful vocals. Fuji maestro Adewale Ayuba transported the crowd back in time with renditions of his classic hits like "Ejo" and "Ijo Fuji," eliciting a wave of nostalgia and excitement. Nice, in his signature style, revived the "Alapomeji" vibe, adding another layer of vibrant energy to the night’s festivities.
Beyond the musical performances, the event also featured memorable moments that added to the overall celebratory atmosphere. Gbenga Adeyinka, the renowned comedian who hosted the event, engaged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in a lighthearted moment, teaching him the popular "Oblee" dance moves, much to the delight of the audience. This playful interaction between the governor and the host added a touch of levity and connection between the political figure and the people he governs.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his address to the crowd, expressed his appreciation for the resilience demonstrated by Lagosians throughout 2024. He acknowledged the year’s challenges and praised the citizens for their unwavering spirit and productivity. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration, stating, "If we are together, we can succeed together." He extended his best wishes for the new year, expressing optimism for a brighter and more prosperous 2025 for all Lagosians. His message resonated with the crowd, reinforcing the sense of community and shared hope for the future.
The Greater Lagos Countdown was not confined to Tafawa Balewa Square but extended its reach across the state. The event was simultaneously held in all five divisions of Lagos, ensuring that the festive spirit and celebration of the new year reached every corner of the metropolis. This multi-location approach allowed more residents to participate in the festivities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared celebration across the diverse communities of Lagos. The decentralized nature of the event underscored the government’s commitment to bringing the joy and excitement of the New Year’s celebration to all its citizens, irrespective of their location within the state. The widespread celebration effectively transformed Lagos into a unified hub of jubilation and anticipation for the new year.
The detailed performances and interactions are described below:
Wizkid’s Performance: Wizkid, a global Afrobeats icon, captivated the audience with his magnetic stage presence and a string of his chart-topping hits. He effortlessly commanded the stage, engaging the crowd with his infectious energy and smooth vocals. His performance was a testament to his status as a musical powerhouse, seamlessly blending his signature Afrobeat rhythms with captivating stagecraft. The audience responded with enthusiastic singalongs and spirited dancing, creating an electric atmosphere that reverberated throughout the square.
Burna Boy’s Performance: Burna Boy, known for his dynamic performances and powerful vocals, brought his signature fiery energy to the Greater Lagos Countdown stage. He delivered a high-octane set, infusing the night with his unique blend of Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall influences. His passionate performance ignited the crowd, who responded with fervent cheers and enthusiastic dancing. Burna Boy’s stage presence was undeniable, captivating the audience with his raw energy and musical prowess.
Tiwa Savage’s Performance: Tiwa Savage, the undisputed Queen of Afrobeats, graced the stage with her captivating presence and impressive vocal range. She delivered a sultry and energetic performance, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her setlist included a mix of her popular hits and newer tracks, all delivered with her signature confidence and stage presence. Tiwa Savage’s performance added a touch of elegance and feminine power to the evening, captivating the audience with her dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals.
Niniola’s Performance: Niniola, renowned for her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence, delivered a heartfelt and emotive performance at the Greater Lagos Countdown. Her powerful voice resonated throughout the square, captivating the audience with her emotional depth and vocal prowess. She showcased her versatility as an artist, seamlessly transitioning between different musical styles and genres. Niniola’s performance added a touch of soulful elegance to the evening, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Adewale Ayuba’s Performance: Fuji maestro Adewale Ayuba took the audience on a nostalgic journey with his performance of classic Fuji hits. He brought his signature energy and charisma to the stage, engaging the crowd with his infectious rhythms and captivating stage presence. His performance was a celebration of Fuji music, transporting the audience back in time with his timeless hits. Adewale Ayuba’s performance added a touch of traditional Nigerian music to the evening, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the country.
The Greater Lagos Countdown 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the start of a new year. The event showcased the vibrancy and diversity of Lagos, highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage and its position as a hub of entertainment and creativity. The event was a testament to the power of music and celebration to unite people, creating a shared sense of community and hope for the future.
