Detty December has become a phenomenon in Nigeria and across Africa; our version of Mardi Gras, Rio Carnival, or Black Friday, but with a uniquely African twist. It is a season of homecoming, cultural exchange, and economic boom. Nigerians in the diaspora return to reconnect with their roots, foreigners arrive to experience our vibrant traditions, and businesses thrive in the frenzy of concerts, parties, and travel. For a brief moment, the struggles of the economy seem forgotten in the lights of festive celebrations.

But while we revel in the glitz of Detty December, we must also ask ourselves: Are we living up to the image we project? Do we make Nigeria a place people truly want to come back to?

The reality is that for all its beauty, Nigeria remains a difficult place to visit, live in, or do business. Power outages, insecurity, corruption, and a general lack of structure taint the experience for many, leaving them with a distorted perception of our country and Africa as a whole.

Detty December is more than just a season of enjoyment; it is a major economic driver. In Lagos alone, tourism and hospitality industries rake in billions, as hotels, restaurants, event venues, and short-let apartments reach full capacity. Last December, inbound flights surged, with over 550,000 passengers arriving in Lagos alone. The influx of people leads to increased spending in transportation, nightlife, entertainment, and local businesses.

Beyond economics, Detty December strengthens cultural ties. It serves as a bridge between Nigerians at home and those in the diaspora, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage. Foreigners who visit get a firsthand experience of our music, food, and traditions, countering negative narratives about Africa. It is a time when our national identity shines, showing the world that Nigeria is more than the political chaos and economic hardship often reported in the media.

For all the benefits Detty December brings, the Nigerian experience is still frustrating for many visitors. Imagine flying in for a much-anticipated holiday only to face hours of delays at the airport due to poor infrastructure. Imagine arriving at your hotel and finding that there is no light, and you must rely on a noisy generator. Imagine getting stuck in traffic for hours because the roads are in terrible condition.

Corruption remains another issue. Visitors often encounter dishonest pricing, bribery at the airport, and a general sense of inefficiency in public services. Instead of creating a welcoming environment, these challenges discourage repeat visits and leave many with a bitter taste about Nigeria.

If we are truly patriotic, we must ask ourselves: Are we upholding the values in our National Pledge?

“To serve Nigeria with all my strength, to defend her unity, and uphold her honor and glory.”

Patriotism is not just about waving the flag or singing the national anthem; it is about making our country better. If we want people to keep coming back for Detty December, we must address the underlying problems that make Nigeria difficult to love. That means improving infrastructure, tackling corruption, and ensuring security.

We have a golden opportunity to brand Nigeria as the ultimate cultural and tourism hub in Africa, but only if we fix the cracks in our system. If other countries can make seasonal events like Mardi Gras and Rio Carnival global attractions, why can’t we? The world is watching, and how we prepare for the next Detty December will determine whether Nigeria is seen as a true destination or just another country with wasted potential.

Nigeria has everything it needs to thrive. Now, we must decide if we want to keep living in the moment or truly build a nation that works; not just in December, but all year round.

Detty December: A Celebration of Culture, Tainted by Our Own Failures

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