As Nigeria joins the global chorus in bidding farewell to 2023 and welcoming the New Year 2024, it’s important that the anticipation and concerns for the upcoming year don’t overshadow the celebration.
Indeed, let’s take a moment to acknowledge that the Pacific nation of Kiribati, specifically Kiritimati Island, will be the first to herald the New Year, leading the way in the global celebration.
Frequently referred to as “Christmas Island,” it resides in the Republic of Kiribati and occupies the farthest forward time zone, being a staggering 19 hours ahead of New York City and 13 hours ahead of Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Following Kiritimati Island’s entry into the new year, Auckland, New Zealand, will soon join the celebration, marking the occasion around 11 a.m. Nigerian time.
Interestingly, the last destination to join the New Year festivities will be Baker Island, located 650 miles (1,046.074 kilometers) from Kiribati, yet trailing behind by about 26 hours due to time zone peculiarities.
As of the time of publishing this story (10:30 a.m.), Kiritimati was merely 30 minutes away from welcoming the New Year 2024.
While over 100,000 people are expected to witness London’s sold-out New Year’s Eve display in person, let the magic of time zones serve as a reminder to celebrate with humility and a sense of global unity.
Some have already embraced 2024 for nearly half a day before others.
This, however, should not diminish the joyous occasion; not even the usual promises from unserious leaders should dampen the festivities.