Yemi Olakitan
A recent report by MO Africa Company Limited has revealed that Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, generated a staggering N100 billion during the Detty December period.
This significant revenue boost was driven by the tourism and hospitality industries, with hotels, clubs, and recreational activities contributing substantially to the total.
According to the report, Lagos played host to approximately 1.2 million tourists, with 60% being local visitors. The presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos and insecurity in the South East contributed to the influx of tourists from Abuja.
Hotel bookings alone contributed N54 billion, with Eko Hotel topping the charts at N10.5 billion. Short-let apartments also generated significant revenue, bringing in N21 billion from 5,937 bookings.Nightlife and clubs were another major contributor, with the top 15 lounges and nightclubs generating N4.32 billion. Adult entertainment also thrived, with the top three strip clubs earning N2.5 billion.
Beaches and resorts added N4.5 billion to the total, while event venues earned N1.2 billion from 1,175 bookings. Car rentals in the Eti-Osa area brought in N1.5 billion from 750 high-end bookings.The report highlights Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s cultural and tourism hub during the festive season, with the city’s Murtala Muhammed Airport processing approximately 550,000 inbound passengers between November 19 and December 26.
Detty December is a popular Nigerian slang term that refers to the month of December, particularly in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s a time of celebration, parties, and festivities, marked by an influx of people returning to Lagos from abroad and other parts of Nigeria.
During Detty December, Lagos comes alive with various events, including concerts, parties, weddings, and other social gatherings. The city’s entertainment scene is usually buzzing, with top artists and DJs performing at various venues.
The term “Detty December” originated from the Nigerian Pidgin English phrase “Detty,” which means “dirty” or “messy.” In this context, it refers to the chaotic and lively atmosphere that characterizes Lagos during the month of December.Detty December has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting tourists and revellers from all over the world. It’s a time for Nigerians to let loose, have fun, and celebrate the end of the year in style.
