The Founder of Santa Claus Nigeria, Adejare Adegbenro, has described the historic visit of the original Santa Claus from Lapland, Finland, to Nigeria as a landmark cultural moment that reinforces the country’s rising global relevance.

Adegbenro said the visit, which marked the first time Santa Claus would tour an African country in such a capacity, has firmly placed Nigeria on the world’s cultural map.

Speaking in Abuja while assessing the impact of the visit, he noted that the initiative was driven by a desire to project Nigeria’s resilience and reshape global perceptions about Africa’s ability to host world-class cultural experiences.

According to him, the project was entirely self-funded, underscoring confidence in Nigeria’s potential.

“There was no sponsor. We financed the project ourselves because we believe Nigeria is a country of firsts, and this visit has now entered the history books,” he said.

Adegbenro commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering an enabling environment that made the historic visit possible, adding that improved national confidence and supportive policies helped attract such a globally recognised cultural figure.

“I thank President Tinubu for creating the atmosphere to host such a personality. I also appreciate Nigerians for turning out to be part of this moment. Nigeria is on the right path, and it can only get better,” he added.

Santa Claus arrived in Abeokuta on December 24, where he distributed gifts and met with dignitaries before proceeding to Abuja, marking the conclusion of his Nigerian tour.

Describing the reception as “electric,” Adegbenro said the excitement and joy expressed by children and adults throughout the visit highlighted the success of the initiative.

He also paid tribute to members of his team for their dedication, particularly the Managing Director of Santa Claus Nigeria Limited, Olori Aminat Matemilola, and the Director, Pastor Dr. Olajumoke Israel, noting that what began as an ambitious idea was realised through teamwork, commitment, and unwavering belief in the vision.