In his message to Nigerians, Yilwatda described Easter as the cornerstone of the Christian faith and a season that powerfully reminds believers of the redemptive sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

According to him, Easter is not only a period of celebration for Christians but also a solemn moment of reflection on the deeper lessons of faith, resilience, forgiveness, humility, and hope in the face of adversity.

“Easter teaches us that sacrifice is the pathway to glory, that suffering is never the end of the story, and that with faith in God, hope can rise again even in difficult times,” he stated.

The APC national chairman noted that the message of Easter remained profoundly relevant to Nigeria’s present realities, calling on citizens to draw inspiration from the resurrection story and remain steadfast in faith and patriotism despite the challenges confronting the nation.

He urged Christians to use the Easter period to recommit themselves to the virtues of righteousness, compassion, unity, prayer, and service to humanity, stressing that the nation needed men and women who would not only profess faith but also live out its values in public and private life.

Yilwatda also expressed deep concern over the security challenges facing parts of the country and commiserated with families and communities affected by acts of violence, banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality.

He stated that the pain and losses suffered by many Nigerians remained a source of collective national grief and called for greater solidarity, vigilance, and cooperation among citizens and institutions in the effort to restore peace and security across the country.

“At a time like this, we must not allow fear, division, or despair to define us as a people. Rather, we must stand together in unity and resolve, trusting God and supporting all lawful efforts aimed at restoring peace, order, and safety in our communities,” he said.

Yilwatda acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in tackling insecurity and stabilising the country, noting that the federal government had continued to demonstrate commitment through strategic interventions, institutional reforms, and renewed support for the nation’s security architecture.

He urged continued collaboration among all levels of government, security agencies, community leaders, faith institutions, and citizens to ensure that peace, justice, and security prevail across the federation.

The APC national chairman further called on Nigerians to use the Easter season as an opportunity to pray for the nation, its leaders, security personnel, and all those who continue to bear the burden of national service.

“This is a time for prayer, reflection, and renewed hope. As Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ, we must also pray for the renewal of our nation; for healing where there is pain, peace where there is conflict, and hope where there is despair,” he added.

He expressed confidence that with faith in God, responsible leadership, and collective commitment to national unity and progress, Nigeria would overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger.

Yilwatda concluded by wishing all Christians a peaceful and spiritually fulfilling Easter celebration and urged all Nigerians to remain hopeful, law-abiding, and committed to the shared task of building a secure, united, and prosperous nation.

“May the message of Easter renew our faith, strengthen our unity, and inspire a brighter future for our dear country. Happy Easter to all Nigerians.”

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In a statement issued by his media office, Atiku called on the government to live up to its constitutional responsibility of ensuring the security and welfare of all citizens and residents in Nigeria.

“Atiku Abubakar extends warm felicitations to all Christians in Nigeria and across the world as they celebrate Easter,” the statement reads in part.

He described the celebration as a season of solemn reflection, intense sacrifice, and divine love, urging Christians to use the period for deep introspection, repentance, and renewal of hope.

“Atiku encourages all Christians to emulate the selflessness, forgiveness, and compassion of Jesus Christ in their daily lives. The essence of Easter is sacrifice and love. We must seize this opportunity to show genuine love and compassion to one another,” he said.

The former vice president also reminded the government of its primary duty under the Constitution to protect the lives and property of citizens and provide an enabling environment for all Nigerians to thrive, regardless of tribe or religion.

“Atiku wishes all Christian families a happy, peaceful, and joyous Easter celebration,” the statement concluded.

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After five days of intense coaching for young tennis players between ages 5 and 16, the tournament was held weekend with very keenly contested games and results.

The young talents showcased their skills to the admiration of the organisers and parents of participants at the Tennis courts of the Ikoyi Club 1938.

Lady captain of the Tennis section of Ikoyi Club, Mrs Wemimo Ogunsanya, said she was happy with the standard exhibited by the young smashers at the colourful final of the championship.

She said it was impressive to see the skills exhibited by beginners and other young talents that took part in the event in which up to 100 tennis players were on parade.

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“We are always happy at Ikoyi Club to receive young talents. This time, the competition was so keen and we are happy with the standard and overall conduct. I want to advise all the kids to be more focused and be steadfast in all they do.

“They were expressive and happy. We thank our partners, Leadway Assurance, for supporting us,” Ogunsanya said.

In the Girls 5-7 category, Damisola Fasore emerged champions after beating Derike Osiyemi 7-5 while in the Girls 8-10 category; Tifeoluwa Ogungbade defeated Damini Falore 10-8 just as Adelapo Farinu emerged winner in the 11-13 category after beating Ayomide Ayorinde 13-11.

Folagimi Williams was the champion in the 5-7 cadre of the Boys category after beating Darasimi Falore 7-5 just as Ifeanyi Osoka defeated Ikenna Osoka 10-8 to clinch the male 8-10 cadre.

Also in the Boys cadre, Mayowa Ogunnoiki won the 11-113 cadre with a 13-11 victory margin in a keenly contested tie with Dreva AAtebe while Farinu Adelani had a tough task in the encounter with Oluruntimilehin. Adelani won 16-14.

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The long holiday declared by the government for us to celebrate the feast of Easter is over; work, hustle and bustle have resumed in earnest! Unlike in times past, the parlous state of the economy did not allow many to celebrate because they had nothing to celebrate with. For those who even have, the insecurity nightmare enveloping and walloping virtually every part of the country was a disincentive for travels and any carefree display of ostentation!

These days, people are waylaid and kidnapped in broad daylight on the highway, in the streets, in the comfort of their homes, in churches and mosques. Nowhere is sacred anymore and no place is a no-go area for criminally-minded elements. Blood flows freely in every part of the country – not in Benue and Plateau states alone anymore – but other parts of the country now compete with the traditional killing fields that once were restricted to the northern parts.

Regrettably, my own dear Ondo state has joined the league of killing fields and no one seems to be doing anything serious about it. But you should ask me if anyone is actually doing anything tangible about the gory killings in other parts of the country! The tragedy of the situation is that the criminals are known; they do not hide but come into the open now and again not only to lay claim to ownership but to also flaunt their ransom largesse as well as taunt the authorities, daring them to take action!

In a country where religion and tribe determine a lot of things, you are dead on arrival when the criminals and those tasked with the responsibility of reining them in come from the same region and belong to the same religion.

The security situation in Ondo state was one reason I was prevented from going home to Owo to celebrate Easter and also get a few other important issues sorted out. The other reason was that I belong to a Mission which does not “allow” its members the luxury, freedom, and liberty to celebrate – be it Easter or Christmas – the way the people of the world do. Go-A Fishing or church planting activities take up the two festive periods, such that there is hardly any time left for travels, festivities or even rest.

Since year-in, year-out church planting has crowded up the cities, the only places where space is available these days are the suburbs and rural areas. So to the Gberigbe/Imota axis, border towns between Lagos and Ogun states, my own Go-A Fishing group went last week. But when will the Mission pause, re-think its church-planting strategies and consolidate on existing parishes instead of its insistence on parish-planting all over the place? There is strength in size and solidity but that is for the authorities to decide!

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I was apprehensive when it dawned on me that I had to put my cars on the road when we could not afford the high cost of hiring a bus. My fear was the bad state of the road. The last time I went that route, the roads were more terrible than terrible. But my surprise last Friday was that the road to Gberigbe/Imota was spotless. No gullies, no potholes, no bumps. It was a smooth ride all the way. On a small portion of the road yet to be paved with interlocking bricks, work was ongoing. When you see something good, please say so! It should not be government-bashing all the time.

This, however, contrasted sharply with my travel the next day to Ile-Ife. I had been invited by my classmate and friend, Professor Gafar Siyan Oyeweso, to his book launch at the Oodua Heritage House, right inside the palace of the Ooni of Ife, where the Arole Oodua himself was honouring the astute historian. Siyan, who is the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of our alma mater, the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife, launched four books at a go: Expanding the pantheon of Yoruba gurus in Nigeria; Perspectives on higher education and good governance in Nigeria; Ede Mapo Arogun: Celebrating a city, its history, monarchy, and people; and Eminent Yoruba Muslims. The creme-de-la-creme of our society was there.

The Ibadan-Ife road is not only in a pitiable condition, it has now become a death-trap. What that road needs is not any Sukuk patch-patch here and there but total reconstruction. My friend and professional colleague, Lekan Shote, popular PUNCH columnist, told me he travelled on the same road a fortnight ago and took ill on his return to Lagos. As I have said here repeatedly, the Lagos/Ibadan expressway, which took decades to construct, is already unravelling, wobbling at many spots just a year or so after its completion. The Ogere axis was particularly bad. So also the Guru Maharaj section. Around the Foursquare church area was already showing signs of stress. Shouldn’t we demand an explanation from Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works?

Back to Easter. If we had nothing to celebrate with, at least they gave us time to relax! That is something! I had ample time to reflect on why virtually everything about Jesus Christ, the reason for the season, appears controversial, starting with His date of birth and circumstance of birth. Some Christian sects and scholars posit that He was not born on Christmas Day, December 25th but most likely around October/November. His virgin birth was also doubted by many.

Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry was no less controversial, leading even his neighbours to question His meteoric metamorphosis into a miracle worker (Matthew 13: 55-56). The miracles He performed made Him popular with many but it also left the Pharisees and Sadducees wondering and gasping for breath (Matthew 12: 22-30). His mode of operation was not conventional, breaking known rules and stirring controversies (John 9:16).

Did Jesus marry or did He not marry? What was his relationship with Mary? Merely platonic or something deeper? Did he sire children or did He not? Can we trace His offsprings today? Or were His “children” simply spiritual as the Bible posits?

Jesus Christ’s messiahship remains controversial. His earthly tribe or people, the Jews, did not accept Him as the Messiah (John 1: 11-13). To this day, they are still awaiting the promised Messiah! Majority Jews are not Christians. In fact, they mock Christians and their Jesus Christ! So, there is controversy; nay, confusion, when Christian church leaders support or ask their followers to support or pray for Israel. Which Israel? Biblical Israel or the State of Israel created by fiat in 1948?

John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, who pointed Him out to the world, and who baptised Him in River Jordan, at a point doubted Jesus’s messiahship (Luke 7: 18-23). The controversies surrounding Him could not have been lost on Jesus Himself because, at some point, He had to ask His disciples whom the people thought He was. And when they answered, He asked them: Who do you yourself think that I am (Mark 8: 27-29)? The same disciples, confused or unsure of His mission, asked Him after His crucifixion whether He would at that time deliver the kingdom unto Israel, thinking His kingdom was of this world (Acts 1:6).

The death of Jesus, his crucifixion, and resurrection from the death – which are the reasons for this season – are no less controversial. Did He die on the cross or did He survive the excruciating ordeal? Did He rise from the dead or was He stolen from the grave? Did He or Did He not ascend into heaven? Is He or is He not coming back?

The death of Jesus, his crucifixion, and resurrection from the death – which are the reasons for this season – are no less controversial. Did He die on the cross or did He survive the excruciating ordeal?

For decades and centuries people have heard that Jesus is “soon” coming back. How soon is “soon”, no one can say for certainty. The end-time signs that are said to signal the “soon” also remain controversial. There are as many interpretations as there are pastors, preachers, and Bible scholars of the end-time events that will herald the coming of the soon-coming King.

Is there heaven? Is there Hell? Is there judgment? Will it take place here on earth or in heaven?

In all of these, I hold on to the words of the Apostle Paul: We know in part and we prophesy in part (1 Corinthians 13: 9-12). No man living has a 100% knowledge of all the things of God.

I also hold on firmly to what Grandma, a devout Muslim, taught me: Okan eni ni igbagbo eni. The Bible corroborates it: A pure heart, and clean hands, is true worship. Not the self-serving cacophony of doctrines; and the garrulous gallivanting of preachers that confuse and exploit the gullible rather than convict the perishing of their sins and lead them to salvation.

I also have learnt from the life and times of Jesus Christ that no one needs to run away from being controversial. Had Jesus done, He most likely would not have fulfilled His manifest destiny (John 12:37).

Compliments of the season to all my esteemed readers!  May the next one be better than the last in Jesus’s mighty name!

*Bolawole (turnpot@gmail.com 0807 552 5533), former Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Chairman of its Editorial Board and Deputy Editor-in-chief, was also the Managing Director/ Editor-in-chief of the Westerner newsmagazine. He writes the “ON THE LORD’S DAY” column in the Sunday Tribune and “TREASURES” column in the New Telegraph newspapers. He is also a public affairs analyst on radio and television.

The post Why was everything about Jesus made so controversial? appeared first on Frontpageng.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in an Easter message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, urged Lagos residents, particularly Christians, to “emulate virtues of humility, perseverance and compassion of Jesus Christ, which made Him die on the cross for the atonement of our sins and reconciling us with God.”

He also implored Christians to continue to live in peace, love and harmony with believers in other faiths, noting that good neighbourliness, selflessness, patience, and love were among the several lessons taught and exemplified Jesus Christ.

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He said: “Today, I wish all Lagosians and Christians across the country and other parts of the world a Happy Easter as we remember the sacrifice and love of Jesus towards mankind.

“As we commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, I want Lagosians and Nigerians in general to make togetherness and unity of the country the central goal of our nationality.

“Let us all emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by simply impacting the lives of friends, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members, as well as contributing to the growth and development of our dear Lagos State and Nigeria.”

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He congratulated the Christian faithful on the completion of the 40-day lenten period, saying their prayers, during the period and beyond, would aid the continued actualisation of the laudable goals of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

In a goodwill message, signed by the Director of his Media Office, Ohiare Michael, on Saturday, the former governor emphasised the significance of the season, noting that the lessons “transcend religious and cultural boundaries and serve as the bedrock of harmonious coexistence.”

He specifically commended the harmonious relationship between Christians in Kogi State and adherents of other faiths, and urged the people of Kogi to continue to support the administration of his successor, Governor Usman Ododo, in delivering the dividends of democracy to everyone, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.

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The former governor, who is widely commended for the legacy of promoting interfaith harmony and inclusivity during his tenure, exemplified by the construction of a chapel in the Kogi Government House, urged all Christians to be guided by the timeless values of peace, compassion and unity preached by the season.

He prayed for God’s continued guidance and protection over the nation and its leadership and urged Nigerians to work together towards a brighter future for all.

The former governor, Bello, enjoined Nigerians to continue to support the administration of President Tinubu, stating that “the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done a lot to turn the economy around in a very short period.”

“We must first recognise this as the administration consolidates on the gains and strives to achieve every aspect of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I wish all Christians a joyous Easter celebration and pray for lasting peace and progress in our dear nation,” the former governor said.

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In a statement released by his Media Office in Abuja, the Waziri Adamawa emphasized that the noble virtues remained indispensable to fostering the unity and cohesion Nigeria so urgently required, especially in a time when narrow, sectional interests threatened to erode the bonds that held the nation together.

“This weekend, we join our Christian brothers and sisters in celebrating Easter — a sacred moment that commemorates the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a season that calls for deep introspection, compassion, and reaching out to those in need,” Atiku stated.

He called on Nigerians of all faiths and ethnicities to unite in prayer and purpose for the peace and progress of the nation.

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“Let us remain steadfast in the pursuit of unity across every divide. Our strength as a people lies in our togetherness. A nation united shall always endure and flourish,” he affirmed.

Expressing optimism, Atiku declared his belief that Nigeria shall overcome her present trials.

“Though evil may momentarily cast a shadow, the collective goodness and resilience of Nigerians will prevail. In unity and shared purpose, our nation shall rise,” he said.

Furthermore, he urged Nigeria’s leaders at every level to use the Easter period as a time of introspection, embracing the spirit of the season to recommit to their sacred duty of service.

“Our leaders must be guided by the principles of sacrifice, love, and charity. It is only through sincere collaboration that we can heal our divisions and renew our national hope. We must resist every attempt to deepen fault lines, for our challenges are not born of ethnicity or religion, but of a failure to build common understanding.”

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“The Holy Week, which spans Palm Sunday through Holy Thursday and Good Friday and culminates in Easter Sunday, calls us to reflect deeply on the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption, love, and hope.

“As President of our blessed nation, I draw inspiration from this timeless message of hope and renewal. I remain steadfast in my commitment to delivering the promise of a Renewed Hope, a better, more just, and prosperous Nigeria for all.

“The recent tragic incidents and the loss of lives in some parts of our country deeply saddened me. I understand the pain and fear these incidents have caused. Let me assure you that my administration’s resolve to restore peace and security remains unshakable. Forces of evil will never prevail over our country. I have given clear directives to the Armed Forces and all relevant security agencies to end insecurity decisively and without delay. With the unwavering courage and commitment of our gallant men and women in uniform, we are turning the tide and making steady progress in reclaiming peace and stability.

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“We are also grateful to all Nigerians for your patience and resilience as our economy begins to show encouraging signs of recovery. We understand the economic challenges many of you are facing, and we are working tirelessly to restore investor confidence, stabilise key sectors, and build an inclusive economy that serves the interests of all Nigerians.

“During this Easter, we join the global Christian community in thanking God for Pope Francis’s recovery. We pray that his renewed strength continues to inspire his leadership and service to humanity.

“I earnestly pray that Easter’s spirit fills every heart and home with renewed faith in the immense possibilities ahead of us as a nation. Just as Christ triumphed over death, so too shall our country triumph over every challenge we face. The present moment may be cloudy, but it will usher in a glorious day.

“I urge all Nigerians to remain hopeful, united, and resolute in pursuing national progress. The task before us is enormous, but together, with faith and determination, there is no obstacle we cannot overcome. Our unity and resilience are our greatest strengths.

“May the risen Christ bless our homes with peace and our nation with continued unity and prosperity.

“Happy Easter to all my fellow Nigerians.”

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The Easter Return: A Homecoming Story

On a brisk Good Friday morning in the heart of Benin City, Osamudiamen Igbinovia zipped up his travel bag with quiet anticipation. It was his first Easter back home in over a decade. A UK-based nurse, Osamudiamen had waited for this very moment, walking barefoot into his ancestral compound, kneeling before his aged grandmother, and offering her a gift wrapped in lace and love.

He wasn’t the only one returning. From Lagos to London, Kaduna to Canada, thousands like him were flooding into Benin and other heritage-rich towns across Nigeria. Flights were booked. Roads bustled. Markets swelled with yam, egusi, and live chickens. Streets once sleepy now pulsed with drums, church processions, and the scent of smoky suya.

Faith in Motion: Pilgrimage and Spiritual Renewal

For many Nigerians, Easter is more than just a Christian commemoration; it is a pilgrimage of the heart and a physical journey of faith. Across the country, highways teem with buses bearing worshippers en route to spiritual destinations. From Redemption Camp in Ogun State to the Holy Aruosa Cathedral in Benin City, thousands gather in solemn assembly, each soul seeking personal renewal, peace, and healing.

In Benin City, the season takes on a uniquely rich expression. At the outskirts of Ugbowo, the annual Easter revival hosted by Bishop Osemwengie’s Living Covenant Assembly draws pilgrims from all corners of Edo State. The open-air crusade ground comes alive with prayer chants, gospel songs in the Edo language, and testimonies echoing under the moonlight.

Pilgrimage during Easter is not just about the destination; it’s about transformation. Young people reconnect with their spirituality. Elders impart wisdom laced with scripture and folklore. Even street hawkers selling palm crosses and prayer bands become part of a larger faith economy.

Culture Awakens: A Season for Heritage and Identity

While church bells ring and choirs rehearse their resurrection hymns, something deeper stirs in the communities of Benin City, something older than colonial cathedrals and just as powerful: culture.

In the GRA district, the Igueben Cultural Troupe begins its Easter performances. Dressed in vibrant coral beads and painted faces, the dancers sway to the rhythm of ancient drums, telling stories of warriors, forests, and forgotten gods.

Easter in Benin is when tradition and Christianity shake hands. Palm-waving worshippers attend morning services and join masquerade festivals in the evening. “Easter no dey scatter our culture,” says Mama Edeki from Ikpoba Hill. “Na we dey use am join am together our God and our ground.”

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From Heritage to Hustle: The Economy of Easter

And where culture thrives, so too does commerce. Tailors are fully booked. Artisans carve masks and beads. Dancers and drummers are paid. Even old women selling akamu and ukodo make brisk sale.

The economic impact is unmistakable. Transport companies hike fares and sell out. Hotels in GRA and Sapele Road are fully booked. Airbnb’s boom. Markets pulse with trade from New Benin to Oregbeni, and hair salons overflow. Designers pull all-nighters for Easter Sunday fashion.

Even land agents get busy. Diaspora returnees use the time to inspect building projects, scout properties, and gift land. Easter becomes not just a spiritual break but a business season.

Religious Tourism and Local Development

Benin City is quietly emerging as a hub for religious tourism. While eyes often turn to Lagos or Abuja, Edo is carving out its space one revival at a time.

Events like the Festival of Light at Ogba Stadium or Resurrection Encounter at UNIBEN Sports Complex draw tens of thousands. These aren’t just altar calls for their business hubs. From event rentals to food vendors, entire micro-economies come alive.

And then there’s the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, perhaps West Africa’s oldest church, built by the Benin people. It’s a site of untapped potential for cultural and spiritual tourism.

Local churches now organize guided historical tours. Hotels and transport services offer group packages. The Edo Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism is exploring official Easter heritage routes.

But success hinges on better roads, visitor amenities, and stronger government and private sector partnerships.

Easter as a Convergence Point

Easter is more than a holiday. It’s a convergence where faith, culture, and commerce coexist harmoniously.

In Benin City, one family might attend a sunrise service in Upper Sakponba, a traditional wedding in Ekehuan, and a cultural dance at Ring Road all in one day. These moments root identity in something deeper where spiritual and social life intertwine.

Easter binds generations. Grandparents share stories, parents host gatherings, and children absorb rituals they’ll one day repeat. This continuity is Easter’s true power: identity, like resurrection, can always be restored.

Conclusion: A Season to Harness, Not Just Celebrate

As the Easter hymns fade and the roads empty, Benin City returns to its rhythm. But the season leaves behind a blueprint.

Easter shows us that faith can fuel enterprise, that culture can survive modernity, and that homecoming can be more than a visit; it can be a mission. It’s time to see Easter as a spiritual fixture and a strategic one.

Here’s how:

• Religious leaders can partner with businesses to create Easter markets and festivals.
• Cultural custodians can host heritage events for locals and tourists.
• The government can formalize Easter tourism, invest in roads, and support SMEs.
• Diaspora returnees can invest, support artisans, and uplift their hometowns.

Let’s not let Easter’s energy vanish with the public holiday. Let it inspire plans, policies, and partnerships reviving our cities and stories.

Because if one season can bring back Osamudiamen and all he represents, it can bring back much more.

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Nigeria’s “Detty December” has become a cultural phenomenon, a month-long music, fashion, and celebration explosion that draws domestic and diaspora crowds. The economic impact is undeniable: hotels overflow, events sell out, and temporary jobs flourish. However, this concentrated burst of activity raises a critical question: Should Nigeria’s festive economy be confined to a single month? This article explores the potential of expanding seasonal festivities beyond December, leveraging the diaspora’s influence and creating a sustainable, year-round economic driver.

A Homecoming Like No Other

Jide always marked his calendar for December. As a Nigerian living in Canada, “Detty December” wasn’t just a holiday; it was a grand homecoming. Every year, he joined thousands of Nigerians in the diaspora returning home for an electrifying season of concerts, weddings, beach parties, and endless nightlife. Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities came alive, buzzing with an economic frenzy that injected billions into the local economy.

But this year, as he stood in a long queue at Murtala Muhammed Airport, something felt off. Why must all the excitement and economic activity be crammed into just one month? Why wasn’t Nigeria maximising its potential beyond December?

Back home in Lagos, his cousin Amaka, an event planner, shared her thoughts. She made more money in December than in any other month, but the dry spells throughout the year were brutal. Local businesses, artisans, caterers, and transportation services thrived in December but struggled to stay afloat once the holiday season ended.

Jide saw an opportunity. What if Nigeria extended the “Detty December” phenomenon across different seasons? Other countries had structured year-round tourism why couldn’t Nigeria? A well-planned festive economy could provide consistent income for businesses, create more investment opportunities for the diaspora, and ensure Nigeria remained an attractive destination beyond just Christmas.

Detty December: A Booming But Limited Economy

There’s no doubt that Detty December has had a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy:

Hospitality and Tourism – Hotels are fully booked, and Airbnb hosts make massive profits.

Entertainment and Nightlife – Concerts, clubs, and festivals generate billions of naira in ticket sales.

Retail and Food Services – Restaurants, street vendors, and supermarkets experience record sales.

Transportation – Airlines, car rental services, and local transport operators see increased demand.

Employment Surge – Many businesses hire temporary staff, creating short-term job opportunities.

While this economic boost is invaluable, the problem is clear: Nigeria’s reliance on just one month of economic activity is unsustainable. If this level of engagement can happen in December, why not replicate it in other months?

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Should It Be Just Detty December? Rethinking Seasonal Festivities

While “Detty December” is a success, its concentration poses challenges. Over-reliance on a single month can lead to infrastructural strain and uneven economic distribution. Nigeria has a rich tapestry of cultural and religious celebrations offering untapped potential.

Detty Easter: The Easter season, the second-largest religious holiday, presents a significant opportunity to replicate the success of “Detty December.”

Summer Events: In July and August, there is a surge in visits from students and diaspora families. Targeted events and festivals during this period can capitalise on this influx.

Public Holidays and Regional Festivals: Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage offers a wealth of regional festivals that can be transformed into national attractions.

Expanding seasonal festivities offers several benefits: it reduces over-dependence on December, spreads economic activity throughout the year, and creates more avenues for diaspora engagement.

Expanding the Festive Economy Beyond December

Instead of waiting all year for December, Nigeria can strategically spread its festive economy by creating new seasonal events:

Detty Easter – Easter is the second-largest festive season in Nigeria, with massive travel and spending. A structured Easter festival with concerts, cultural celebrations, and business expos can draw local and diaspora participation.

Summer Festivities (July–August) – Many diaspora families visit Nigeria during the summer. Why not create a tourism-driven festival with concerts, business summits, and heritage tours?

Regional Festivals as National Attractions – From the Calabar Carnival to the Osun Osogbo Festival, these local events can be marketed internationally to attract global tourists.

Diaspora Returnee Investment Summits – Events tailored to engage the diaspora in real estate, fintech, and agribusiness can make seasonal homecomings not just about fun but also about economic impact. By spreading festivities across multiple seasons, Nigeria can reduce overdependence on December and create a more balanced economic cycle.

With strategic planning, diaspora engagement, and government support, seasonal celebrations could become a powerful tool for economic diversification, cultural export, and national branding. Nigeria could be a destination for more than just December and a tourism, business, and investment hub all year.

The Role of the Diaspora in Expanding Seasonal Economies

The Nigerian diaspora plays a crucial role in fuelling Detty December, and their engagement can be extended beyond just one month. With structured opportunities, they can:

Invest in Local Businesses – Diaspora-owned ventures can thrive in hospitality, event planning, and tourism services throughout the year.

Support Local Entrepreneurs – By partnering with vendors, artists, and SMEs, diaspora returnees can create long-term business relationships.

Promote Nigerian Culture Globally – By organising heritage tours and cultural exchange programs, the diaspora can bring international exposure to Nigeria’s tourism sector.

Imagine if instead of just “coming home for December,” there were dedicated programs that encouraged returnees to engage with Nigeria multiple times a year. Structured seasonal engagement can make the diaspora a stronger economic force.

Cultural Festivals: Unlocking Year-Round Tourism Potential

Eyo Festival

A historic Lagos masquerade parade that can be revived as an annual cultural tourism attraction, blending tradition with modern entertainment.

Calabar Festival and Obudu Crossover

A fusion of Africa’s biggest street carnival with adventure tourism at Obudu Mountain Resort, extending Nigeria’s festive tourism beyond December.

Osun Osogbo Festival

A UNESCO-recognized Yoruba heritage festival that can attract global tourists and diasporans seeking cultural and spiritual reconnection.

Benin Cultural Experience

A showcase of Benin’s ancient art, royal heritage, and traditions, positioned as a global cultural hub with strong diaspora ties.

Northern Nigeria’s Durbar Festival

A grand equestrian display of culture during Eid celebrations, with potential for expansion into a major heritage and religious tourism attraction.

Egba Heritage and Olumo Rock Festival

A blend of historical storytelling, adventure tourism, and cultural exhibitions, making Abeokuta a key destination for heritage tourism.

A Holistic Approach to Expanding Nigeria’s Tourism Calendar

By strategically developing these festivals, Nigeria can unlock a diversified tourism economy that goes beyond Detty December. With proper government backing, private sector investment, and diaspora engagement, these cultural celebrations can become significant drivers of economic growth, heritage preservation, and international recognition.

Building a Sustainable Festive Economy

To truly harness the power of seasonal festivities, Nigeria must put in place a long-term strategy that includes:

Government-backed seasonal Tourism Strategies – Policies that encourage investment in event spaces, security, and infrastructure for large-scale gatherings.

Incentives for Diaspora-Led Businesses – Tax breaks and grants for diaspora entrepreneurs looking to invest in seasonal industries.

Promoting Nigeria’s Cultural Calendar Globally – Embassies, travel agencies, and influencers can help position Nigeria as a year-round cultural hotspot.

Infrastructure Development – Expanding airports, improving transportation networks, and ensuring reliable power supply to support the influx of visitors beyond December.

From One Month to a Year-Round Opportunity

Jide knew that Nigeria’s potential was limitless. He and Amaka decided to take action. She would plan a structured Easter festival, and Jide would rally his diaspora network to invest in the idea. If Detty December could generate billions in just one month, imagine what a year-round festive economy could achieve.

The time had come to move beyond Detty December. With strategic planning, diaspora engagement, and government support, seasonal celebrations could become a powerful tool for economic diversification, cultural export, and national branding. Nigeria could be a destination for more than just December and a tourism, business, and investment hub all year. Nigeria’s holiday economy can change from a concentrated December phenomenon to a year-round engine of economic expansion.  Nigeria might open up enormous economic prospects by deliberately extending seasonal celebrations, interacting with the diaspora, and fostering the creative sector.  This strategy will boost cultural exports and national branding while diversifying the economy.  Nigeria may increase its economic growth and turn every season into a cause for celebration by putting the right plans into place.

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