IJGB’s Guide to Staying Safe in Nigeria During Detty December

It’s just 52 days to Christmas, and as usual, the IJGB season is loading. Bags are packed, flights are booked, and Airbnb apartments across Lagos are already fully reserved for those not lodging with family or childhood friends. The Detty December calendar is set,  concerts, beach parties, weddings, club nights, and endless link-ups. The excitement is real.

But here’s the truth many don’t like to talk about: all that fun can go south if you don’t have a solid safety plan. It’s no secret that IJGBs are easy to spot,  the accent, the dressing, the spending habits, even the confusion when dealing with Nigerian cash or traffic. And because of that, you automatically become a target for opportunists.

So before you touch down and start shouting “Naija no dey carry last!”, read this first. Here’s how to enjoy Detty December and return to base in one piece:

1. Change your money only in verified and recognised places

Don’t let anybody deceive you with “I get one aboki wey dey do better rate.” It’s very easy to get scammed or end up with fake notes. Use only approved BDC operators, banks or people highly recommended by family. If the deal sounds too sweet, just know there’s a hook somewhere.

2. Don’t move around with all your foreign currency

Nigeria is not obodo oyinbo where you can enter supermarket with €500 casually. Keep only what you need for the day. The rest should stay in a safe place, preferably with a trusted family member or in a locked suitcase.

3. Be mindful of how you dress and talk in public

Your accent, sneakers and wristwatch already expose you. No need to add “I just came back from Canada” to the mix. Blend in. Look normal. IJGB is already written on your forehead — don’t make it bolder.

4. Always use trusted transportation

Uber, Bolt, or a family driver. Don’t enter random cars because “the guy looks friendly.” Kidnap-for-ransom is not a Nollywood storyline. It happens.

5. Don’t post your real-time location online

That IG story saying “We outside at Hard Rock” is an open invitation to trouble. Post when you’ve left. Nobody needs to know where you are live.

6. Watch your drinks at parties and clubs

Never leave your cup and “continue later.” People spike drinks. It’s not gist, it’s real life. If you didn’t see the drink opened in front of you, don’t drink it.

7. Keep your passport and important documents safe

Losing your passport in Nigeria during Detty December will humble you faster than Nigerian traffic. Make photocopies. Keep one with you, one at home.

8. POS operators are not all saints

Some will duplicate your card, double charge, or claim “network no go” after collecting your money. If the POS looks suspicious, walk away.

9. Avoid withdrawing money late in the night

ATMs are hotspots after dark. If you must withdraw, go with someone or use a machine inside a bank premises with security.

10. Move smart, not loud

Enjoyment no dey run. You don’t have to “show levels” everywhere. Detty December is sweet, but safety is sweeter.

Detty December is all about enjoyment, but enjoyment without sense can turn to premium tears. Nigeria will always welcome her IJGBs with vibes, food, parties, and culture but the streets are not smiling, and nobody is above being played if they move carelessly. The goal is simple: come home, have fun, spend money, create memories, and return to base safe, whole, and unscathed.Enjoy, but stay alert. Flex, but stay coded.

Because at the end of the day, Detty December is only sweet if you’re Safe  to gist about it in January.