For many Nigerians, Detty December is far more than parties and nightlife. It is a season of homecoming — a time to reunite with loved ones, share laughter, and momentarily forget the struggles of the year.
December 2025 has proven no different.In this special report, we take a closer look at Detty December in Lagos, exploring the excitement, movement, and growing challenges confronting travel and tour operators during Nigeria’s busiest festive season.
Lagos, the nation’s commercial heartbeat, comes alive every December as Nigerians from across the world return home for the holidays. From the airports to the streets, the surge of activity is unmistakable.
Detty December
This annual migration, popularly known as Detty December, finds its strongest expression in the city.
Airlines report fully booked flights as Nigerians in the diaspora flood back home, eager to reconnect and create lasting memories.
Lagos becomes a melting pot of accents, embraces, music and motion. Travel expert Mrs. Nike Macaulay and President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Yinka Folami, say the demand for travel into Nigeria remains strong.
According to Mrs. Macaulay, Nigeria’s aviation sector continues to attract interest, adding that improvements in visa processing have enhanced accessibility.
“The demand exists in Nigeria. The Nigerian aviation space is still very attractive. As regards visas, we should commend the Minister of Interior — the online application has really improved,” she said.
Across Victoria Island, Lekki and Ikeja, hotels are fully booked, while short-let apartments are snapped up almost instantly.
Travel and tour expert, Mr. Bankole Bernard, describes the demand during the season as overwhelming.“There’s so much gain coming from Detty December because it is full of activities — from the most expensive tickets to the cheapest shows of about five thousand naira. People can choose what suits them,” he said.
Economic ripple effect
Beyond accommodation, the economic ripple effect spreads rapidly. Markets experience a boom, designers work overtime, food vendors record increased sales, and nightlife businesses thrive.
Tour operators such as Mr. Oluwaseun Afolabi and Mr. Aderinola Desalu say the season fuels nonstop movement, from colourful aso-ebi sales to sizzling suya spots and entertainment cruises.
“We are basically ferrying people from Fiki to Takwabe and then bringing them back. We already have plans for youths and people who want to see Nigeria from a different perspective,” Afolabi said.
Desalu added, “One of the things we have done is to create cruise experiences — two to three hours on the water — for people coming in from the diaspora.”
Each night in Lagos tells a different story. Beach parties, rooftop lounges, concerts and street gatherings keep the city awake, as residents and visitors chase joy, vibes and unforgettable moments.
However, beneath the glitter lies mounting pressure. Prices soar, spending increases, and many struggle to keep up with the season’s flashy lifestyle.
Head of TravelDen, Mr. Gbenga Onitilo, says excessive pricing has begun to push some travellers to celebrate in neighbouring countries such as Ghana.
“What we are witnessing is pricing that is out of order. Bars, restaurants and hotels are charging almost three times their normal rates, not based on forex or economic reality. This affects affordability and is pushing people to consider other countries,” he explained.
In response, NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, maintains that price hikes are a natural outcome of increased demand during peak travel periods.
“It is seasonal. Travel and hospitality are seasonal industries. Prices go up as a function of availability and commerce,” he said.
Security agencies
With swelling crowds and roads busy deep into the night, security agencies remain on alert. Despite the heavy movement, Mr. Bankole Bernard notes that the season has remained largely incident-free.
“Funds are being channeled towards creating a safe haven for visitors. People feel comfortable coming in, and that is what sustains Detty December. Many also find Lagos relatively affordable when they spend pounds and dollars,” he added.
As the year draws to a close, one message rings clear — Detty December is more than a celebration. It is Nigerians choosing joy over hardship, music over silence, and hope over worry, ending the year dancing and dreaming of better days ahead.
Reporting by Nosa Aituamen