In recent years, Detty December has evolved from a Lagos slang into a full-blown global tourism signal—drawing diaspora Nigerians, foreign visitors, investors, and creators back to the country in waves. But beyond the vibes, the concerts, and the fully booked hotels, serious conversations are now happening about what this seasonal boom means for Nigeria’s tourism economy.
That was the focus of “Detty December” Naija7Wonders Zoom Conference 3.0, hosted by Amb. Ikechi Uko, a respected tourism advocate and convener of the Naija7Wonders platform. The session brought together policy leaders, industry veterans, and private sector voices to unpack the lessons and impact of Nigeria’s festive tourism surge—and what must happen next.
A Convergence of Policy, Culture, and Private Sector Voices
The conference featured a strong lineup of contributors, including Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha NATOP President, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan Ismaila, Permanent Secretary at the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture; Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture; Ojoi Ekpenyong (Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau); Mr. Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautical & Cargo Services; and Mr. Aliyu Badaki, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).
Joining live from Cotonou, Badaki described the session as too important to miss—even while attending another industry event. “I just had to hook up to this and leave the event I came for later,” he said, underscoring the urgency of the conversation for industry stakeholders.
Detty December: More Than a Lagos Party
One of the conference’s key takeaways was that Detty December is no longer just a Lagos Island phenomenon. Speakers highlighted how festive tourism is spreading across Calabar, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, Kano, Katsina, and beyond—creating a national tourism moment.
Badaki noted that states are “warming up” to join the movement, and that platforms like Naija7Wonders are helping stakeholders see how to package their destinations. Na so e dey—once Lagos show road, others dey follow, but now everybody must bring their own flavour.
Planning, Collaboration, and the Power of the Private Sector
A recurring theme was intentional planning and collaboration. Drawing from Obi Asika’s insights, Badaki stressed that the government alone cannot carry the tourism economy. “The private sector is critical in all what we are doing,” he said, calling for structured partnerships across travel, culinary tourism, hospitality, aviation, and tour operations.
He also emphasized standardization, especially in hotels and hospitality services. If Nigeria wants to compete globally, accommodation, food, and experiences must meet consistent quality benchmarks. No be only vibes; na systems, standards, and serious packaging.
Packaging Nigeria for the World
The conference highlighted the need to move beyond organic hype to structured tourism products. From curated tours and festivals to culinary trails and cultural experiences, Nigeria’s tourism industry must be packaged in ways that international travelers can easily understand, book, and share.
Speakers agreed that storytelling—through digital media, influencers, and creative platforms—will be central to this effort. The world is watching, and Nigeria must learn to present its culture, cities, and heritage with clarity and confidence.
Impact on Participants and the Industry
For participants, the conference served as both a reality check and a roadmap. Detty December proved that Nigeria has global pull, but sustaining that momentum requires planning, policy, and private sector investment. The discussions encouraged stakeholders across states and sectors to think long-term, collaborate, and align their offerings with global tourism trends.
As Badaki put it, when tourism is properly harnessed, “you’ll find out that it will not just be Lagos… every other state will key in.” The ripple effect could redefine Nigeria’s tourism economy.
A Platform for Collective Growth
In closing, speakers commended Amb. Ikechi Uko for creating a consistent knowledge-sharing platform through Naija7Wonders. By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and practitioners, the conference is helping shape a more coordinated and informed tourism ecosystem.
As the Detty December phenomenon continues to grow, the lessons from Naija7Wonders Zoom Conference 3.0 are clear: Nigeria has the attention. Now, it must build the structure. And if government and private sector truly collaborate, the whole country fit fly—no be only Lagos.
By Samuel Opoku
