Culture and Creative Economy minister says early planning will boost tourism, security and economic impact
The Federal Government has announced plans to begin preparations for Nigeria’s 2026 “Detty December” festivities as early as March, in a move aimed at strengthening tourism, improving coordination and maximising the economic benefits of the annual end-of-year celebrations.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who said the government intends to adopt a more structured and proactive approach to managing the increasingly popular December tourism season.
According to the minister, early planning will allow relevant ministries, agencies and private-sector stakeholders to align efforts on logistics, security, infrastructure, event scheduling and international promotion. She noted that “Detty December” has evolved from a social trend into a major cultural and economic driver, attracting thousands of visitors from across Africa and the diaspora.
Musawa explained that starting preparations months ahead would help address recurring challenges such as overcrowding, traffic congestion, accommodation shortages and security concerns, while also ensuring that Nigeria presents a more organised and welcoming experience for tourists.
She added that the government is working towards positioning “Detty December” as a flagship national tourism product capable of generating significant revenue, creating jobs and showcasing Nigeria’s creative industries, including music, film, fashion and nightlife, on a global stage.
The minister further stressed that collaboration with state governments, event organisers, hospitality operators and security agencies will be central to the 2026 plan, noting that a coordinated framework is necessary to sustain the growth of the festive season without overwhelming host cities.
“Detty December” has, in recent years, placed cities like Lagos and Abuja at the centre of global entertainment conversations, with concerts, festivals and cultural events drawing international attention. The Federal Government believes that early planning will help consolidate these gains while ensuring sustainability, safety and inclusiveness.
Musawa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging culture and tourism as tools for economic diversification, adding that the March kickoff will mark a new phase in Nigeria’s approach to managing one of its most visible cultural exports.
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