By Itohan Abara-Laserian
Mr Gbenga Onitilo of TravelDen has voiced strong concerns over Detty December’s future, warning that unchecked price increases could gradually weaken the festive brand’s appeal.
He told journalists in Lagos on Thursday that many visitors were already complaining about inflated charges, which he described as a worrying trend for the tourism sector.
Onitilo stressed that the hospitality and entertainment ecosystem was charging excessive rates, noting that some operators now demand three or even six times their standard prices.
He said such increases covered accommodation, hotels, entertainment venues and other services, creating an environment that discouraged returning Nigerians and international visitors.
He explained that Detty December rose to prominence in 2024 through social media, where posts showcased tours, food experiences, concerts and vibrant nightlife across Nigerian cities.
According to him, the celebration became a homecoming highlight, especially for Nigerians who had spent long periods abroad and were eager to reconnect with local culture.
He warned that many vendors now fix prices with foreign currency spenders in mind, forgetting that affordability remained central to Nigerian festive traditions and tourism identity.
He said the escalating charges risked driving Nigerians to other countries offering structured festive experiences at fairer prices, undermining Nigeria’s tourism value.
Onitilo urged government to intervene by regulating the ecosystem, engaging stakeholders and introducing subventions to stabilise pricing and protect the seasonal economy.
“This year many stakeholders prepared well, but we have taken pricing out of order,” he said, adding that bars, restaurants and hotels were pushing limits unnecessarily.
He noted that Ghana and Rwanda had successfully structured their festive seasons, offering organised events and transparent pricing that increasingly attracted Nigerian visitors.
He warned that such competition could erode domestic gains, recalling that visitors’ heavy spending in 2024 boosted Lagos, Calabar, Owerri and other major festive cities.
He emphasised that sustaining Detty December required collaboration, realistic pricing and long-term planning to keep the season attractive for both locals and global holidaymakers.
