As Nigerians prepare for the end-of-year celebrations and look ahead to 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned citizens to celebrate responsibly during the Yuletide season and renewed his promise to defeat banditry and terrorism across the country. The President gave this assurance while receiving the organisers of the popular Eyo Festival, who visited him at his Lagos residence ahead of the festival scheduled for December 27.
The visit by the Eyo Festival organisers was part of preparations for the annual cultural event, which attracts thousands of residents, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts to Lagos Island. The Eyo Festival, also known as the Adamu Orisha Play, is one of Lagos State’s most important traditional events. It is often held to honour important personalities or mark special occasions and has become a symbol of Lagos’ rich cultural heritage.
While welcoming the organisers, President Tinubu used the opportunity to speak to Nigerians about safety, peace, and moderation during the festive period. He cautioned against excessive alcohol consumption and warned against actions that could put lives at risk.
According to the President, celebrations should not turn into moments of sorrow or tragedy. He urged Nigerians to enjoy the season with care, respect for one another, and a strong sense of responsibility.
“I’m happy for this great cultural remembrance and the rekindling of our culture,” Tinubu said. “It’s a great honour to come back home to meet our people happy and healthy for the celebration of the Eyo carnival in peace, harmony, love, and brotherhood.”
The President described the Eyo Festival as a symbol of unity and cultural pride, not just for Lagos State but for Nigeria as a whole. He stressed that culture plays a key role in bringing people together and reminding them of shared values such as peace, respect, and community living.
Tinubu also offered prayers for Nigerians as Christmas approaches, expressing hope that the season would be joyful and free from violence or accidents. He said the holidays should be a time of happiness, not danger.
“We continue to pray to God Almighty that the coming Christmas will be a joyous one for every one of us,” he said. “The coming holidays will not be a disaster for Nigeria. God will bless all of you. You stay in peace, rejoice in peace, dance in peace—no alcohol, no danger to anybody’s life—and everybody is a member of this great family.”
The President’s warning against alcohol abuse comes at a time when road accidents and other incidents often increase during festive periods. In past years, safety agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have repeatedly warned that drunk driving and reckless behaviour are major causes of accidents during holidays. Tinubu’s message aligns with ongoing efforts by authorities to promote safer celebrations across the country.
Beyond the festive message, President Tinubu also addressed the major security challenges facing Nigeria. He assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to defeating banditry and terrorism, which have affected many parts of the country in recent years.
Bandit attacks, kidnappings, and terrorist activities have caused loss of lives, displacement of communities, and economic hardship, especially in the North-East, North-West, and parts of the North-Central regions. Farmers have been unable to access their lands safely, and many rural communities continue to live in fear.
Tinubu, who became President in May 2023, said security remains a top priority for his government. He noted that progress is being made and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united.
“Eko is progress, Nigeria is making progress, and it’s a result of this progress that we are all rejoicing in this period,” he said. “God will bless you, bless Lagos, bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I assure you that we will defeat banditry and terrorism.”
Since taking office, Tinubu’s administration has announced several measures aimed at improving security, including better coordination among security agencies, increased funding, and support for intelligence gathering. While challenges remain, the government says it is determined to restore peace and stability nationwide.
The President’s comments also reflect his strong connection to Lagos, where he previously served as governor from 1999 to 2007. Lagos is widely regarded as Nigeria’s commercial capital and a centre of culture, business, and entertainment. Events like the Eyo Festival play a major role in promoting tourism and preserving traditional values in the state.
The organisers of the Eyo Festival thanked the President for his support and described his presence and words as encouraging. They said the festival would be held peacefully and would showcase Lagos’ culture, history, and spirit of unity.
Many residents see the festival as a time to come together, regardless of background or belief. White-clad masquerades, traditional music, and colourful displays usually fill the streets, creating an atmosphere of celebration and pride.
As Nigerians move closer to the end of the year, the President’s message serves as both a reminder and a reassurance. He called for moderation, peace, and care during celebrations, while also promising continued action against insecurity.
For many Nigerians, the hope is that the coming year will bring improved safety, economic stability, and opportunities for growth. Tinubu’s assurances, given during a cultural and festive moment, were meant to inspire confidence and unity at a time when the country is looking ahead to the future.
With Christmas and the New Year approaching, the President’s message is clear: celebrate responsibly, value human life, uphold culture, and remain hopeful that Nigeria will overcome its challenges and move forward in peace.