Detty December Ignites Lagos: Wizkid, Davido, and Olamide Thrill Massive Crowds Amid Sky-High Ticket and Hotel Prices

Clarion Newschannel Exclusive Report – December 19, 2025
Lagos is pulsating with the unstoppable energy of Detty December 2025, the annual festive frenzy that transforms Nigeria’s commercial capital into a non-stop celebration of music, parties, and cultural revelry. As diaspora Nigerians flock home and visitors pour in, the city is alive with sold-out events, beachside gatherings, and headline performances drawing massive crowds – but soaring costs for tickets and accommodations are sparking widespread debate about affordability.
The festivities kicked off in spectacular fashion this week, with superstars Wizkid, Davido, and Olamide sharing the stage at the GTCO End-of-Year Party on Tuesday night, December 16, at a beachside venue in Lagos. The rare joint appearance electrified fans, with Wizkid performing tracks from his new album Morayo alongside classics, Davido delivering high-energy hits that had the crowd singing along, and Olamide bringing his signature street anthems. Attendees, including celebrities and industry figures, described the night as a standout moment, marking one of the few times this season the three Afrobeats giants have performed together.
Wizkid’s performance came ahead of his highly anticipated GOAT: The Greatest of All Time Experience concert on December 28 at Tafawa Balewa Square. Davido is set to headline a major show on Christmas Day, December 25, while Olamide continues to appear at multiple events throughout the period.
The centerpiece of Detty December remains the iconic Flytime Fest at Eko Convention Centre, running from December 21 to 25. This year’s lineup features Flavour on December 22, Olamide on December 23, Asake on December 24, and Davido closing on December 25, with Rhythm Unplugged on December 21 showcasing Rema and international guests like Central Cee. Other major events include Detty December Fest at Ilubirin with acts like Busta Rhymes and Gunna, and the free Greater Lagos Countdown on New Year’s Eve featuring Wizkid, Burna Boy, Olamide, and more.
However, the joy is tempered by record-high prices that many say are pricing out local fans. VIP tickets for key Flytime shows range from N120,000 for Olamide and Flavour to N250,000 for Davido and Rema, and up to N300,000 for Asake – amounts exceeding several months’ minimum wage for many Nigerians. VVIP tables can reach N3 million to N35 million. Critics argue these costs, driven by global demand and rising logistics, risk alienating the grassroots audience that built Afrobeats.
Accommodations are facing similar backlash. Short-let apartments in prime areas like Victoria Island and Ikoyi have surged to averages over N220,000 per night, up from N120,000 in 2023, with some listings demanding foreign currency payments or exorbitant rates like $9,000 for 11 nights. Hotels are fully booked, contributing to last year’s estimated $44 million in sector revenue alone, part of a broader $71.5 million boost to Lagos from Detty December activities.
Despite the complaints, the economic impact is undeniable, fueling tourism, nightlife, and local businesses while showcasing Nigeria’s vibrant culture on a global stage. Many are opting for cheaper alternatives like house parties or free events, ensuring the “detty” spirit – Pidgin for wild, uninhibited fun – endures.
As the season ramps up toward Christmas and New Year, Lagos remains the epicenter of Africa’s biggest year-end party. Clarion Newschannel will bring you live updates from the hottest spots and star-studded shows. Stay tuned for more on how Detty December 2025 is unfolding.