New Year: 10 countries that will enter 2026 before Nigeria
The year 2025 has been a whirlwind globally, filled with highs, lows, and unexpected twists. For Nigeria, it brought moments of joy, challenges, and significant events that shaped the nation.
As Nigerians prepare to bid farewell to 2025 and step into 2026, some countries around the world will celebrate the New Year ahead of them. Here’s a look at those nations and the times they ring in 2026.
Kiribati: First to Celebrate
The island nation of Kiribati in the central Pacific Ocean will be the first to welcome 2026. Its Kiritimati (Christmas Island) follows the UTC+14 time zone, which means it will celebrate the New Year at 2 PM UAE time (11 AM in Nigeria).
New Zealand: A Head Start
New Zealand, made up of the North and South Islands, will already be in 2026 by 12 PM Nigerian time, as Wellington is 12 hours ahead of Nigeria.
Fiji: South Pacific Cheers
The Republic of Fiji, with its capital in Suva, will ring in the New Year by 1 PM in Nigeria, joining the celebrations across the South Pacific.
Japan
Tokyo, Japan, welcomes 2026 at 4 PM Nigerian time, eight hours ahead of Nigeria.
South Korea
Seoul, South Korea, joins Japan in celebrating the New Year at 4 PM Nigerian time.
North Korea
Pyongyang, North Korea, also marks 2026 at 4 PM Nigerian time, along with its East Asian neighbours.
Singapore
The city-state of Singapore will ring in 2026 at 5 PM Nigerian time, seven hours ahead.
China
Beijing, China, celebrates the New Year at 5 PM Nigerian time, coinciding with Singapore.
Indonesia
Indonesia, spread across Southeast Asia and Oceania, welcomes 2026 at 6 PM Nigerian time, six hours ahead.
Russia
Moscow, Russia, in Eastern Europe, will celebrate the New Year at 10 PM Nigerian time, two hours ahead of Nigeria.
From the Pacific islands to Europe, the New Year travels across the globe before finally reaching Nigeria.
