Lagos Cashes in With Detty December 

Lagos, Nigeria’s vibrant cultural and tourism hub, witnessed an unprecedented economic boost during last December’s festive season, with a record-breaking revenue of over 100 billion naira. A report by MO Africa Company Limited revealed that hotels, clubs, and recreational activities were major contributors to this impressive figure. The report also estimates that Lagos hosted approximately 1.2 million tourists during the period, with 60% being local visitors.

The origin of Detty December remains unclear, but it refers to the festive period at the end of the year, typically spanning mid-December to the New Year. It is characterized by members of the Nigerian diaspora, often called IJGBs (I Just Got Backs), returning to reconnect with family and friends. This period is marked by an array of activities, including nightclub events, concerts, and parties. The report highlights that the top 15 lounges and nightclubs generated 4.32 billion naira, with an average table spend of 1.2 million naira. Additional revenue came from hotels, beaches, car rentals, and more.

Tourism is vital for Nigeria’s economy, and Lagos stands out during Detty December for its ability to host large-scale events and cater to both luxury and budget travelers. With infrastructure like international airports, high-end hotels, and short-let apartments, the city is well-equipped to handle the influx of tourists. Additionally, insecurity in other parts of Nigeria redirects domestic tourists to safer regions like Lagos.

The tourism surge is further fueled by Nigerians’ cultural inclination to celebrate the festive season extravagantly, making December a peak period for travel and recreation. This boost in activity drives the entertainment sector, with significant contributions from concerts, nightlife, and recreational activities.

Between November 19 and December 26, Murtala Muhammed Airport processed around 550,000 inbound passengers, 90% of whom arrived for leisure purposes. Visitors predominantly came from countries such as the U.S., Canada, Italy, South Africa, and the U.K., underscoring Lagos’s growing appeal as a global tourism hotspot. Foreign celebrities like Chloe Bailey, Saweetie, and South African pop star Tyla were also spotted in Lagos, adding glamour to the season and amplifying the city’s international profile.

As Lagosians recover from the whirlwind of December festivities and brace for the stretch of a long January, the city solidifies its reputation as a powerhouse of culture, a magnet for tourism, and a thriving economic epicenter that shines far beyond Nigeria’s borders.