Detty December: 10 Things Nigerians Abroad Must Prepare for an Unforgettable Homecoming

Detty December is no longer what it used to be. What started as a Lagos-based end-of-year party culture has transformed into a global movement , a month-long celebration of music, fashion, nightlife, and cultural pride.

Today, Detty December has become a homecoming season, the time when Nigerians in the diaspora, affectionately called IJGBs (“I Just Got Back”), return home to relive the magic they’ve missed all year.

And at the heart of it all is Lagos State, the undeniable capital of African entertainment. From Eko Hotels to Landmark Beach, from the Mainland block parties to high-end island soirées, Lagos transforms into a 24-hour festival zone. Every corner pulses with life,concerts, food festivals, pop-up fashion shows, weddings, beach carnivals, and cultural experiences that showcase the creativity and resilience of Nigeria.

But Detty December isn’t just about the nightlife. It’s a reconnection with home, a reminder that no matter how far we travel, there’s nothing quite like the energy, warmth, and authenticity of Nigeria.

If you’re a Nigerian abroad planning to return home for your first or long-awaited Detty December, here are 10 essential things to put in place to make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Book Your Flight Early

Flights into Nigeria during December are some of the most expensive of the year. Prices can double or even triple by mid-November, and availability becomes a problem as airlines fill up fast.

To avoid paying outrageous fares or scrambling for tickets, start monitoring flight prices as early as September and confirm your booking by October. Booking early also gives you room to plan your stay more efficiently, especially if you’re coming from countries with long travel routes.

Secure Your Accommodation Ahead of Time

Accommodation is another area where early planning pays off. Lagos hotels, Airbnb's, and short lets get fully booked weeks before December begins, especially in hot zones like Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Ikeja GRA.

Before you make payment, verify that your choice has reliable power supply, good security, clean water, and internet access. It’s also wise to book through verified platforms or trusted contacts to avoid scams, which tend to increase during festive periods.

Plan Your Event Calendar

Detty December is packed with events, and Lagos alone hosts hundreds of them, from. Lagos Fiesta to Music Festival, Rave at the Beach, and countless private parties.

The truth? You can’t attend them all. So, curate your own event list. Follow your favorite artists, promoters, and lifestyle brands on social media to stay updated on ticket sales and dates. Prioritize your must-attend events and slot in rest days, Lagos energy is exciting but intense.

Sort Out Your Transportation

If you’ve heard stories about Lagos traffic, believe them. Getting around can be tricky, especially when major events are happening simultaneously.

To move smart, download reliable ride-hailing apps like Bolt, Uber, or inDriver, or consider hiring a trusted driver for the period of your stay. If you’re driving yourself, plan your routes and leave early for events. Always keep small cash for tolls or unexpected stops. Lagos roads can test your patience, but with preparation, you’ll navigate like a pro.

Dress for the Vibe

Fashion is a big part of Detty December. From casual hangouts to red-carpet events, Lagosians go all out and so should you.

Pack a mix of outfits that match the mood: comfortable daywear, trendy party fits, traditional attires (Ankara, agbada, aso-oke), and a few statement pieces. The weather will be warm, so stick to breathable fabrics. And don’t forget , Lagos nightlife runs late, so make sure your style transitions easily from day to night.

Manage Your Cash Flow

While Nigeria has embraced digital payments, not every vendor or venue accepts cards or transfers. It’s smart to arrive with a balance of cash, working bank apps, and international cards.

Set a spending limit for yourself, because Detty December spending can spiral out of control quickly, but life Continues In January. From food to drinks, concert tickets, and impromptu shopping, the fun never ends, but your wallet might. Budget wisely, and keep emergency funds separate.

Reconnect With Family and Friends

Amidst the concerts and events, don’t forget the emotional side of Detty December reconnection.

Visit family, attend weddings and traditional ceremonies, hang out with old friends, and spend time in neighborhoods that hold memories. Share laughter, stories, and meals that remind you of home. For many Nigerians abroad, these quiet, familiar moments end up being more meaningful than the loud parties.

Stay Security Conscious

Like any major city, Lagos is vibrant but comes with its risks. Crowded places can attract pickpockets, scammers, and fake ticket vendors.

Stay alert, move in groups when possible, and keep valuables (phones, jewelry, wallets) secured. Avoid sharing your exact location on social media in real-time. Most importantly, trust your instincts , if a situation feels off, walk away.

Capture the Moments — But Don’t Miss Them

It’s tempting to record every single moment, but remember: not all memories belong on your phone.

Take pictures, yes, but also be present. Dance, laugh, eat suya by the roadside, watch the sunset at Landmark Beach, and soak up the atmosphere. The best Lagos experiences are often unplanned and unfiltered.

Come With an Open Mind

Lagos will test your patience, from unpredictable traffic and sudden rain to power cuts and last-minute event cancellations. But that’s part of its unique charm.

Embrace the chaos. Laugh through the inconveniences. You’ll quickly learn that beneath the noise and hustle is a city bursting with warmth, talent, and energy. Detty December isn’t perfect , but it’s authentic. And that’s what makes it special.

Detty December isn’t just a festive season; it’s a cultural homecoming. It’s a time when Nigerians from all over the world reunite under one sky to celebrate identity, music, and the joy of being home.

So as you plan your trip, don’t just prepare for the parties , prepare for the experience. The laughter, the music, the people, the chaos, it all comes together to remind you of one simple truth: there’s no place like home.