So, you finally booked that ticket home for December? Congratulations! You’re about to experience the magical chaos of Detty December in Nigeria.
Detty December is a lifestyle. It’s when Nigerians abroad fly home to reconnect with family, old-time friends, and most importantly the home-made foods. It’s the season when events are in excess and Lagos doesn’t sleep (pro max).
From touching down in style and spending your dollars or pounds easily to dodging your aunties’ interrogations.
Here’s how to enjoy Detty December in Nigeria like a professional enjoyment Officer.
Touch Down in Style
There’s nothing like the warm Nigerian air hitting your face at the airport. But before you channel your inner influencer for that “touchdown” photo, remember Nigeria is hot. That thick and cute winter jacket you wore for aesthetics, you’ll regret it.
Then there’s the airport wahala. Customs Officers have mastered the art of “anything for us?” Be polite, smile, and try not to look too much like a “Johnny Just Come.”
Let’s talk money. It’ll be best to have some cash handy for random expenses and that’s why getting a Detty Card is a game-changer. With it, you can spend seamlessly in Nigeria without the stress of constantly changing your dollars, pounds, or euros to naira.
No Bureau de change drama, Just tap, pay, and spend your money without stress. The real flex isn’t just looking stylish when you land, it’s spending smart and stress-free while you enjoy the holidays.
ALSO READ: Everything You Need to Know About Detty December
Family First (Before the Streets Claim You)
The truth is, no matter how much you’ve planned your outing and flexing, the moment you land, family obligations come first. You should know Nigerian families don’t play. There will be weddings, and impromptu family meetings where the main agenda is: “So when are you getting married?”
Aunties will size you up, uncles will ask about your job, and younger siblings will expect you to drop small foreign currency like Santa Claus.
Spend a good time with your family. You didn’t fly across continents just to live on Instagram posts and stories. Help in the kitchen, gist with your siblings, and give the elders their due respect. Handle family first, then Detty in peace.
Secure Your Plug for the Best Events
Detty December is basically a marathon of events. From high-class owambes to Afrobeat concerts and beach raves, something is happening every day. The challenge? Knowing which events are worth it. Don’t just rely on random TikTok posts.
Your best bet is Fusion Events, where you’ll find all the best and coolest events happening in Nigeria. Your cool cousins can also spill the gist, but act fast. Remember, Lagos has multiple events clashing on the same night. Don’t overbook yourself. Pick wisely and save energy.
ALSO READ: Budgeting 101: How to Make Your December Salary Last Till February
Budget Like a Boss (So You Don’t Go Broke in Two Weeks)
One of the fastest ways to cry in December is to land in Nigeria with a “London budget” mindset. That $500 that used to stretch like chewing gum in America won’t in Nigeria. In Lagos, it might disappear in one night of bottle service.
Have a plan. Don’t blow your money in the first week trying to impress people who won’t even remember your name by February. Set aside a Detty card allowance and stick to it. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are lifesavers, but they add up quickly.
Remember, you don’t need to pop ten bottles to prove you’re enjoying yourself. Sometimes, showing up with good vibes is more than enough. Besides, if you go broke too early, Detty December will turn into Dry January real quick.
Foodie Adventures: Eat Your Way Through December
If you’ve been abroad eating microwaved “African food” that tastes like struggle, December in Nigeria is your redemption time. Homemade food will first reset your brain before street foods like suya, roasted boli and gravy, or groundnut, puff-puff, etc. And don’t even get me started on the pepper soup, they all hit differently in Nigeria.
Forget your calorie-counting apps, December is not the time for dieting. Eat everything you’ve missed, because when you go back abroad, it’s back to frozen plantain and struggle stew.
If you want the bougie vibe, Lagos and Abuja have brunch spots where you can spend too much money on avocado toast and mimosas. But real Nigerians know the true vibe is in the Homemade and Street foods.
ALSO READ: The Nigerian Guide to Surviving Airplane Food
Safety and Street Smartness
Yes, December is fun, but Lagos is not Disneyland. Being street smart is non-negotiable. The first rule is always watch your belongings. That iPhone you’re dangling in the air is a prime target. Keep your valuables close, and don’t leave your drinks unattended at clubs.
Transport at night? Stick to trusted ride-hailing apps or roll with friends. Don’t just jump into random cabs. And for the love of vibes, don’t overdo it with alcohol, you don’t want to be the one passed out in the corner while your friends are uploading embarrassing snaps.
Blend in. Even if you’re “fresh from abroad,” don’t act too obvious. Try your best to drop the accent when talking to some people; if not, they’ll want to ride you. The streets respect confidence, not cluelessness.
Capture the Vibes (But Live in the Moment Too)
What’s Detty December without content? This is your chance to flex. Owambes with beautiful gele, and cool kaftan or senator wears, beach selfies at sunset, street food snaps that will make your abroad friends jealous, it’s all part of the package.
But remember not to spend all your time behind the phone. Some of the best moments can’t be captured, only experienced. Dance like nobody’s watching, laugh with old friends till your stomach hurts, and enjoy the chaos without worrying about your TikTok angles.
That said, take enough content to show that you really enjoyed your Detty December. Just don’t let FOMO (Fear of missing out) force you to record every second. You’re not a documentary filmmaker.
Recharge and Reset
After two weeks of running from owambes to concerts to clubs, your body will start sending warning signs. Don’t ignore them.
Not every day should be for parties, some days, just chill. Catch up with old friends over drinks and calm discussions instead of blasting music. This balance keeps you refreshed and ensures you don’t spend the last week of December in bed with malaria or exhaustion.
Remember, January is waiting with school fees, bills, rent, and reality. Don’t go back abroad completely drained. Leave Nigeria with memories, not regrets (and preferably with some money still in your account).
ALSO READ: Detty December Gone Wrong: 4 Nigerians Share Their Experiences
Detty December is more than just a party season. It’s a reunion with your home, your roots, and those old-time friends who still matter. It’s chaotic and beautiful. From the owambes to late-night party runs, every moment is memorable.
December in Nigeria is like nowhere else in the world, and it starts with getting your money and budget right. Enjoy the events, eat the food, capture the vibes, and most importantly, make time for family and rest.
Don’t come unprepared, polish your pidgin or Native language, and come with your Detty card to make it a Detty December.
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