2026: Sanwo-Olu, Bala Mohammed, Makinde, Oyebamiji, CAN, Others Raise Hope of Nigerians

NEW YEAR MESSAGES

Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi, Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, Sylvester Idowu in Warri, Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja and Yemi Kosoko in Jos

Nigerian leaders, among them governors, yesterday, in their various new year messages expressed confidence that 2026 would a better year for the citizens.

They generally expressed optimism that the new year would yield better result than the outgone year and sought the cooperation of Nigerians for the collective good.

Sanwo-Olu: 2026 Will Be Glorious

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the New Year would be better and more glorious, praying for God’s guidance and affirming that “with God all will be well”.

Sanwo-Olu spoke at a New Year’s Day service at State House Chapel, Marina. He was also at the mosque to join the Muslim prayers.

He prayed for President Bola Tinubu, urging Nigerians to support his bold moves to tackle Nigeria’s social and economic challenges.

The governor stated, “Lagos will continue to make progress. It shall be well with all citizens; 2026 will be a glorious year. There will be political movements. I will continue to count my days.

“I have only one January first left in office. No position is permanent. Let’s continue to pray. We will never give up, no matter the challenges. Nigeria will be greater.”

Sanwo-Olu, at the mosque, urged workers to be more dedicated. He also prayed for Mr. President, his family and all Nigerians.

At the service were senior government officials, junior staff of State House and some ordinary citizens.

Oyebamiji Vows People-focused Govt

The governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Munirudeen Oyebamiji, extended heartfelt felicitations to the citizens and residents of Osun State on the occasion of 2026 New Year celebrations.

Oyebamiji extolled the high sense of resilience and patriotism daily exhibited by the people of the state since its creation, informing them to await masses-focused and people-centred progressive government in 2026.

AMBO, in a congratulatory statement, acknowledged the citizens’ prayers and steadfastness that had kept the state afloat, promising to bring the desired developments when elected governor this year.

Oyebamiji stated, “As we usher-in New Year of prosperity, I extend my warmest greetings and felicitations to the good people of our dear state whose resilience, perseverance, dedication and avowed hope have kept our state afloat against all odds.

“This is a year of manifestation, a year of fulfillment, a year of transition, a year of prosperity for all and a year of all round growth and development for everyone in the state.”

Mohammed Seeks Peace, Unity, Patience

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, called for continued peaceful coexistence, unity, patience and sustained support as the citizens began the journey of the new year 2026.

The governor appealed to political parties, aspirants and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the Electoral Act, as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election began to gather momentum.

Mohammed, who felicitated with the people of the state and Nigerians at large on the occasion of the 2026 New Year, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for seeing the state and the country through the challenges of 2025.

He described the successful passage into 2026 as an act of divine grace, stating that despite economic, political and social challenges, the people of Bauchi State remained resilient, steadfast and prayerful.

Let’s Join Hands to Build Oyo’s Future, Makinde Tells Residents in 2026 Broadcast

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, called on all residents of the state to continue to cooperate with the state government, perform their civic duties, and remain united so as to build the future that everyone desired for the Pacesetter State.

Makinde said the state government alone could not build the state, calling for continued support from residents in terms of making the state productive, lawful and peaceful in order to achieve the vision of a better and greater Oyo State. Makinde stated this yesterday, in his New Year Broadcast.

He appreciated residents of the state for their resilience, trust and support in 2025, saying though the state and its residents were hard pressed on different fronts, they were not crushed.

He listed some of the achievements of the administration in the outgone year, including the commissioning of key infrastructure projects in Ibadan and the massive progress on the 110km Ibadan Circular Road project.

He pointed out how the state’s commitment to moving its economy from a consumptive one to a productive economy received a major boost through the Oyo State International Agribusiness Summit and the International Tourism Summit organised in the outgone year.

Makinde added that as a result of the government’s efforts, Oyo State enjoyed relative peace amid increased insecurity across the country.

The governor said the outgone year tested the resolve of the state, but the New Year would reward its preparations, as several efforts, including the preparation and signing of the 2026 Budget of Economic Expansion, had prepared the ground for the tremendous achievements and economic uplift that will be witnessed in the state in the New Year.

Oborevwori, Omo-Agege, Mulade Celebrate Nigeri-ans in New Year Messages

Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, extended warm and heartfelt felicitations to Deltans as they ushered in 2026.

Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His protection, grace and sustaining presence over the people and the state throughout the past year.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, yesterday, the governor described the New Year as a season of renewed hope, fresh beginnings and collective responsibility.

He urged citizens to draw strength from the lessons of the past and look forward to the future with optimism, courage and unity of purpose.

Oborevwori acknowledged the sacrifices, resilience and patience displayed by Deltans. He said the modest but impactful gains recorded across key sectors of the state were made possible by the people’s enduring spirit, peaceful disposition and shared commitment to progress.

Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, said having weathered the storm precipitated by the poor economy it inherited, Nigerians could look forward to a year for the consolidation of the bold reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu since taking over the reins of power.

In his New Year message, Omo-Agege commended Nigerians for their resilience despite the tough decisions they have had to endure.

Omo-Agege, the Obarisi of Urhoboland, stated, “The good thing about the reforms introduced by President Tinubu is that they were not knee jerk reactions. They are the product of thoroughly evaluated projections which experts and the international community were convinced were just what the economy needed to come back from the brink.

“To a large extent, that has been accomplished. It is now time for consolidation of the gains of the reforms. I believe 2026 marks the return to prosperity for Nigerians.”

A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate, and human and environmental rights activist, Chief Mulade Sher-iff, welcomed Nigerians to the New Year 2026, urging government at all levels to embrace prudence, accountability, and purposeful governance focused on delivering electoral promises rather than being distracted by the next election cycle.

Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in his New Year message issued at Okerenkoko Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.

In the message, Mulade reflected on the prevailing socio-economic realities confronting the country and the responsibilities of leadership at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Mulade stated that Nigerians were currently grappling with severe economic hardship, a situation he said demanded urgent, people-oriented responses from the federal government.

Ododo Seeks Unity, Hard Work, Patriotism

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, extended warm New Year greetings to the people of the state, calling for unity, hard work, and sustained patriotism as the administration intensified efforts to deliver people-oriented governance.

In his New Year message, Ododo expressed gratitude to  Almighty God for protection and guidance throughout the past year, stating that the period test-ed the resilience of the people but also strengthened their collective resolve.

He said despite challenges, the state recorded modest but significant gains across key sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment, attributing the progress to discipline, unity of purpose, and the cooperation of citizens.

Ododo stated, “The New Year presents renewed hope and a stronger resolve by his administration to do more through prudent resource management, inclusive governance, and policies aimed at improving the quality of life of the people, expanding opportunities for youths, empowering women, and strengthening the state’s economy.”

Wike: 2026’ll Mark FCT 50th Anniversary

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, described 2026 as a particularly significant milestone because it marked the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory. Wike affirmed this yesterday in a New Year message to residents of the FCT.

He added that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) would not just be commemorating the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration but planned to mark it by showcasing tangible developments aimed at transforming the lives of residents favourably.

The minister said through Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, FCT had witnessed unprecedented development across territory, from the Abuja Municipal to far flung areas, such as Abaji, Kuje and Kwali.

He enjoined FCT residents to imbibe the virtues of diligence, discipline, and determination and be law abiding as they navigated the new year together.

The FCT minister stated, “The year 2026 as a particularly significant year because it marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory.

“The golden jubilee celebration of the FCT is a testament to the vision of our founding fathers, and to the resilience of Nigerians who have continuously demonstrated the resolve to coexist in peace and unity these past 50 years.”

Najeem Salaam Felicitates People of Osun

African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Dr. Najeem Salaam, felicitated with the people of Osun State on the occasion of the New Year 2026, describing it as a season of renewed hope, unity, and collective resolve for a better future.

Salaam thanked the people of the state for their resilience and faith, despite prevailing socio-economic challenges, urging them to remain steadfast and optimistic.

“The New Year 2026 presents us with a fresh opportunity to reflect, renew our commitments, and work together for the Osun of our dreams, an Osun that is prosperous, inclusive, and just for all,” he said.

The ADC flagbearer emphasised the need for purposeful leadership anchored on transparency, people-oriented policies, and sustainable development. He said Osun State was endowed with the human and natural resources required to thrive if properly harnessed.

He further called on the youth, women, professionals, artisans, and traditional institutions to actively participate in shaping the future of the state, stressing that governance should be a collective responsibility.

Deadly Attack Mars Celebration in Plateau

New Year festivities were overshadowed by tragedy in Plateau State, as suspected armed assailants launched a deadly attack on Bum community in Chugwi, Vwang District of Jos South Local Government Area, leaving several residents dead and many others unaccounted for.

The incident, which occurred about 11pm on December 31, 2025, came at a time when residents were preparing to usher in the New Year.

The community was plunged into chaos as gunmen reportedly invaded the area, opening fire on unsuspecting civilians.

As at press time, seven bodies had been recovered, while search and rescue operations continued amid fears that the casualty figure may rise.

Local sources told THISDAY that the attack followed an earlier security alert warning that several communities in Jos South Local Government Area had been earmarked for possible coordinated assaults.

The latest violence added to the growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State, where rural communities have repeatedly come under attacks despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to restore peace.

In a statement,  Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM) condemned the attack, describing it as “a painful reminder of the persistent threats faced by vulnerable communities across the state”.

The association said it was closely monitoring developments and will provide further updates as more information became available.

LP Tells Youths to Show Interest in Nation’s Affairs

Labour Party (LP) called on the Nigerian youth to show greater interest in whatever was going on in the country.

Interim National Chairman of LP, Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, in her New Year message, said she desired a country that worked.

Usman stated, “Nigeria is currently haemorrhaging from the devastating effects of misgovernance, and the effort to rescue her from the clutches of poor leadership requires far more than passive interest in the electoral process.”

She urged the youth and women to take a more active role in the politics and governance of the country, and called on them to take the advantage of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continued voter registration (CVR) exercise, to register to vote in the 2027 general elections.

“It is only through this legitimate democratic process that we can enthrone the leadership we collectively desire for our nation in 2027,” Usman said.

She also called on those in position of authority to demonstrate greater empathy in leadership by pursuing policies that genuinely addressed the needs of the suffering masses.

Nigeria Needs Economic, Moral, Spiritual Healing in 2026, Declares CAN Chairman

Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rev. Yakubu Pam, said Nigeria needed economic, social, moral, and spiritual healing in 2026.

In his New Year message, Pam called on Christians to remain steadfast in faith, united in purpose, and hopeful in the face of Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, as they entered the year 2026.

He expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the Church through the trials of the past year, stating that despite hardship and uncertainty, the Church continued to stand firm in prayer and service.

“As we enter the new year, 2026, we give thanks to God for His sustaining mercy through the trials of the past year,” he said.

He acknowledged the economic hardship, insecurity, and social uncertainty that marked the outgoing year, stressing that the Church remains committed to praying, serving, comforting the afflicted, and proclaiming hope to communities.

The CAN chairman reminded Christians in Northern Nigeria of their dual responsibility as “citizens of heaven and active participants in the nation’s affairs”, stating that the country yearns for healing on multiple fronts.

“Our land longs for healing economically, socially, morally, and spiritually,” Pam said.

He urged the Church to respond to insecurity, unemployment, rising living costs, and communal tensions with continuous prayer, wisdom, integrity, and peace, warning against despair and hatred.

He added, “In the face of insecurity, unemployment, rising living costs, and communal tensions, the Church must continue to pray without ceasing, speak truth with wisdom, remain model peace and integrity, resist despair, and reject hatred.

“We must not allow frustration to silence our witness or bitterness to redefine our faith.”