Night to Shine 2026: A Royal Celebration of Ability, Dignity and Divine Love in Lagos (Celebrating people with special needs)
LAGOS, NIGERIA — February 13, 2026 —
The atmosphere at St. Francis Catholic Church, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, was transformed into a palace of honor and heartfelt celebration as Night to Shine: 2026 Edition unfolded in grandeur and grace. Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation Georgia USA and hosted by Spiritan Sound Outreach, the globally recognized movement once again affirmed a powerful truth: every individual with special needs is a King and a Queen.
From the moment the event commenced at 10:20 AM, it was evident that this was not merely a gathering — it was a statement of value, inclusion, and unconditional love.
A Grand Entrance Fit for Royalty One of the most unforgettable highlights of the day was the luxury limousine experience. Guests arrived in style, cruising into the venue with dignity and excitement written across their faces. The limousine ride was more than transportation — it was a declaration.
As each guest stepped onto the beautifully decorated red carpet, cheers erupted from volunteers and attendees. Emotions filled the air. For many of the celebrated guests, it was a rare moment of public affirmation — the feeling of truly being seen, honored, and celebrated.
The red carpet shimmered not just with lights, but with tears of joy, proud smiles from parents, and the undeniable presence of purpose.
Beyond Celebration:
A Holistic Experience of Care
The 2026 edition went beyond glamour to provide impactful humanitarian services. Several complimentary departments were fully operational throughout the event, ensuring guests were pampered and cared for at no cost. Medical professionals offered free health check-ups, including blood pressure monitoring and consultations. A dedicated shoe-shining station reinforced the ‘Mighty Shine’ theme, ensuring every guest sparkled from head to toe. The face painting department added vibrant artistry to the atmosphere, while the newly introduced Sensory Room provided a serene premium lounge experience for relaxation and intimate moments.
Refreshments flowed generously throughout the day, fostering fellowship and comfort among guests, parents, and volunteers.
Performances That Stirred the Soul.
The event reached an emotional crescendo during the Graceful Groovers presentation. A powerful song/drama choreography titled ‘Home is the Best’, written by Rev.Oluwafemi Victor Orilua CSSp, and performed alongside The Graceful Groovers group conveyed a moving message of belonging and divine celebration — a reminder that no one is forgotten in God’s plan.
Adding further excitement were live performances from some of the special guests themselves, including: Adebayo Erioluwa, Speech by Akabueze Prosper while modelling-Adesola Akinbusola and Music presentation by DString, a blind guitarist who was also invited as a guest artiste.
One of the performers in the person of Adebayo Erioluwa received a surprise promise of a free professional music production, a moment that drew thunderous applause and heartfelt tears from the audience.
More so, a runway appearance by one of the special guests turned the hall electric, proving that confidence and elegance know no limitations.
The Crowning Moment
In true Night to Shine tradition, every honored guest was individually crowned as King or Queen. As crowns were gently placed on heads and gift packs presented, emotions overflowed. The parents expressed deep gratitude for the dignity and visibility given to their children, thw volunteers described the experience as life-changing.
Worthy of note are some guests of honor who graced the occasion. These include Rev Fr Modestus Uzoekwe CSSp, Parish Priest of St Joseph Catholic Church, Ketu-Ijanikin, Rev Fr Boniface Ugwo CSSp, Parish priest St Francis Catholic Church oregun Ikeja, Rev. Fr Godfrey Igboka CSSp, Rev. Fr Onyinlo Williams CSSp, Barrister Boluwaji Ajayi, Engr Toba Ogunleye, Mrs Awe Folorunso, Mrs Titilayo Asikpata, Barrister Mofolowasho Liasu, the founder of Super Parent Foundation, and other dignitaries in attendance reaffirmed their commitment to building a more inclusive society.
Voices of Impact
“This is more than an event; it is a restoration of identity,” one of the Super parent foundation representatives noted.
“Today, my child was not pitied. My child was honored,” a parent also shared.
The testimonies throughout the day echoed a common theme — transformation, joy, and renewed hope.
A movement, not Just a moment. As the program concluded at 3:30 p.m., it was clear that Night to Shine 2026 had once again shifted narratives. It replaced stigma with celebration. It replaced limitation with royalty.
Hosted by Spiritan Sound Outreach and powered by the Tim Tebow Foundation Georgia USA, this special event continues to stand as a beacon of inclusion, compassion, and divine affirmation
Because at Night to Shine, disability does not define destiny — dignity does.
Report by Ayodele Timothy
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