Janefrances Chibuzor
Lagos State has reaffirmed its position as the tourism and entertainment capital of Africa, with the December 2024 season generating an impressive $71.6 million in revenue across tourism, hospitality, and entertainment sectors.
The Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, highlighted this achievement in the recently released “Lagos State Detty December 2024/2025 Report,” prepared by MO Africa Consulting. Aregbe underscored the pivotal role tourism plays in driving economic growth and preserving Lagos’ rich cultural heritage, citing the visionary leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu and the support of Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
According to Aregbe, “Tourism remains a vital driver of economic growth and cultural preservation for Lagos State, with the ‘Ember’ season playing a key role. This season represents a period of unity, vibrancy, and celebration, fueled by the dynamic spirit of Lagosians.”
The December 2024 festivities, popularly dubbed “Detty December,” included a lineup of high-profile events such as the Greater Lagos Fiesta, African Fashion Week, and Spotify Wrapped Concert, attracting international tourists, the Nigerian diaspora, and local audiences. Hotels alone accounted for $44 million in revenue, while short-let apartments generated $13 million, showcasing the city’s capacity to thrive as a global destination.
“From enterprising artisans in local markets to creative entrepreneurs shaping the entertainment and tourism sectors, the resilience and ingenuity of Lagos people lie at the heart of its success. The participation of residents, alongside visitors from other states and countries, has been fundamental in establishing Lagos as a cultural and tourism hub,” Aregbe said.
He further expressed gratitude to the people of Lagos, industry stakeholders, performers, and artisans for their contributions to the success of Detty December. Aregbe noted that the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture played a pivotal role in ensuring the season’s success, reinforcing Lagos’ standing as a beacon of tourism, culture, and economic excellence.
“As we reflect on these successes, we look forward to building on this momentum with the upcoming ‘Lagos Tourism is Rising’ campaign in 2025, which aims to celebrate our cultural richness and further solidify Lagos as a leading tourism and entertainment destination,” Aregbe added.
