By God’spower Ede, Lafia
Thursday, January 1, 2026, marks the beginning of another journey of 365 days in the globally acknowledged Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582.
The new year often comes with an atmosphere filled with hope, promise, and possibilities. It is also a moment for reflection, to look back on the past, and look forward to the future.
Hence, one tradition that has become an integral part of this season is the making of New Year resolutions.
By simple definition, a New Year resolution is a promise or commitment made to oneself or others to achieve a specific goal or change a behavior, habit, or attitude in the coming year.
It is a conscious decision to start anew, to leave the past behind, and to strive for improvement.
Historically, the tradition of making New Year resolutions dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of such practices found in ancient Babylon, Egypt, and Rome.
It is on record that the Babylonians, for instance, would make promises to their gods to repay debts and return borrowed items at the start of each new year.
Accordingly, New Year resolutions are important because they provide an opportunity for individuals and societies to reflect on their priorities, set goals, and work towards positive change to encourage personal growth, self-improvement, and accountability.
Similarly, in many cultures, the new year is seen as a time of spiritual renewal, a chance to reconnect with one’s faith, and to seek guidance and strength for the journey ahead.
Here in Nigeria, many churches incorporate New Year resolutions into their services, especially on New Year’s Eve in the form of a crossover night and on the New year day, emphasizing spiritual growth, community service, and personal development.
Therefore, as individuals, the year 2026 is another opportunity for us to make New Year resolutions to set clear goals and priorities, develop self-discipline and accountability.
We can also ensure we make the new year resolution to break unhealthy habits and adopt positive ones and as well improve relationships and build stronger bonds with others.
Equally as a tradition, government at the national and sub-national levels can leverage the annual New Year resolution to set new priorities and goals for national development.
These can be done by implementing policies that promote the welfare of citizens, provide infrastructural development, tackle corruption, promote transparency, and encourage citizen engagement and participation in governance.
Nigeria, like many countries, faces numerous challenges, ranging from insecurity to economic instability, corruption, and poor infrastructure.
By making and keeping New Year resolutions, Nigerians can embrace the culture of accountability and transparency, work towards sustainable development and environmental conservation.
This tradition can also help promote peace, unity, and national cohesion, support good governance and effective leadership.
Therefore, as we embark on this new year, let us recognize the power of New Year resolutions to transform our lives, our communities, and our nation.
For these reasons, let us make commitments that promote the common good and strive to keep them.
By doing so, we can build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.
Happy New Year!
God’spower Ede is a senior News Editor with Nasarawa Broadcasting Service, NBS