By Sakariyah, Ridwanullah
As the year winds down, Nigeria’s cultural calendar ignites with the phenomenon known as Dirty December – a month-long extravaganza of festivities, music, and communal revelry that transforms the nation into a hub of unbridled celebration.
Coined from the Pidgin term “detty,” implying a “dirty” or carefree letting loose, this season draws millions, including diaspora returnees, to partake in concerts, carnivals, and gatherings across states. However, amid the joy, economic pressures loom large, with inflation hovering at over 30 percent and living costs strain household budgets (Trading Economics, 2024).
In a country where economic disparities are stark, Dirty December has evolved from a mere holiday ritual into a litmus test for affordability. While some states revel in opulent displays that inflate prices, others offer vibrant experiences without the financial sting. A Nairametrics investigative feature reveals that Nigerians spent an estimated N3 trillion nationwide during the 2024 festivities, with revenue concentrated in key states.
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This year, as projections for 2025 point to similar trends amid currency devaluation, the question arises: Which state provides the most economical yet exhilarating Dirty December?
To address this, this report examines three prominent states—Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Cross River—drawing on tourism data, economic analyses, and local testimonies. While Lagos and the FCT dazzle with high-end allure, Cross River emerges as the pocket-friendly frontrunner, with cultural vibrancy that meets accessibility.
Lagos State: The Epicenter of Extravagance and High Costs
Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial powerhouse, stands as the undisputed kingpin of Dirty December. With beach bashes in Lekki, blockbuster concerts like Flytime Music Festival, and a host of other lively revelries, Lagos state pulses with energy, while attracting over 1.2 million visitors in 2024 alone, according to an MO Africa Company Limited tourism report. Diaspora inflows, dubbed “IJGBs” (I Just Got Back), fuel this boom, injecting foreign currency but also driving up expenses.
The economic toll is glaringly evident. An analysis from MO Africa Company Limited states that in 2024, Lagos generated N111.5 billion in tourism revenue, with hotels raking in $44 million and short-let apartments adding $13 million. However, this prosperity comes at a price for revelers. A BusinessDay report highlights that mid-range hotel rooms in areas like Victoria Island surge to $50–$120 per night during December, often doubling from off-season rates due to demand. In an investigation from Pulse Nigeria, the cost of transportation triples amid traffic snarls, with ride-hailing services like Bolt charging up to three times the norm.
An article from Punch Newspapers in December 2024 highlighted that higher food prices were the main driver of the 34.6% inflation rate. The report also noted a rise in transportation costs which compounded the high cost of living.
Also, an April 2025 analysis from Proshare noted that inflation forces households to re-allocate their budgets, dedicating more money to necessities and cutting back on non-essential items, which includes entertainment.
A report by African Business highlights how such inflation exacerbates inequality; it benefits only the elites in the society while sidelining average Nigerians. “Lagos is thrilling, but it’s a playground for those with deep pockets,” notes tourism analyst Omosebi Ijebu, who in a TravelTank forecast projects a potential $2 billion national boost if infrastructure improves, yet warns of exclusionary costs. To some people, the vibrant, frenetic, and bustling energy and excitement of Lagos state is irresistible, but it often results in post-festive financial regrets.
Federal Capital Territory: Polished Elegance with Premium Pricing
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), centered in Abuja, offers a more refined take on Dirty December. Here, the season unfolds in upscale lounges and private estates, with events at venues like Hustle & Bustle that often draw political and business elites for themed nights and networking. Unlike Lagos’s street-level frenzy, the FCT’s celebrations emphasize exclusivity, blending holiday cheer with strategic socializing.
In this territory, costs reflect the sophistication. Hotels in districts like Maitama and Wuse average $38–$50 per night for mid-tier options, but December surges push luxury rates to $120 or more. Dining for two at restaurants can top N40,000, while ride-hailing dominates transport, inflating budgets in a city with sparse public options. An Al Jazeera investigation underscores how economic woes have muted festivities, with income gaps making the FCT’s leisure scene a domain of the top earners.
In one notable development, a 2025 tourism forecast by TravelTank notes that while the FCT attracts high-spenders, its events often require VIP access, pricing out budget travelers.
“Abuja shines for the elite, but for the average reveler, it’s a distant dream,” says political economist Rauf Aregbesola, while echoing concerns that premature focus on luxury diverts from inclusive growth. The territory dazzles, yet its exclusivity renders it less viable for cost-conscious participants.
Cross River State: Carnival Vibes with Budget-Friendly Appeal
Cross River State, with its capital Calabar, presents a compelling alternative, hosting Africa’s largest street party through the Calabar Carnival. Interestingly enough, this month-long event features parades, floats, and cultural displays along kilometers of public routes that draw tens of thousands without entry fees. The carnival democratizes festivity and spills joy into open spaces rather than gated venues.
One important hallmark to consider in Cross River state is affordability. In 2024, the state generated N14.06 billion from the carnival, a fraction of Lagos’s haul but with broader access for middle- and lower-income groups. Hotel rates remain modest, averaging $17–$35 per night for decent accommodations, even during peak December. Local transport via Bolt costs N1,500–N2,000 per ride, and meals like afang soup hover at N2,500. A Vanguard report praises this model for boosting tourism without luxury taxes, and this positions Cross River as a growth engine.
In addition, local voices reinforce this. “I ditched Lagos for Calabar two years ago—same energy, half the cost,” shares banker Ifeanyi Okoro from Enugu. This aligns with surveys that show 60% preferring affordable cultural hubs. Event organizer Grace Ekanem adds to this by saying, “It’s about heritage shared freely, not priced out.” Also, a TGM Research study on holiday preferences notes that Nigerians favour communal events over costly ones. This clearly bolsters Cross River’s edge.
Voices from the Ground: Affordability vs. Aspiration
Across states, sentiments oftentimes vary. In Lagos, a vendor in Lekki laments, “Visitors bring money, but prices rise for us too.” In the FCT, a resident notes, “It’s elegant, but not for everyone.” Cross River’s inclusivity draws praise; analyst Chief Omenazu Jackson states, “States must prioritize accessible joy over elite gains.” Diaspora tourism reports echo this – that which projects growth in budget destinations.
Comparison of the Trio: Cross River as the Economic Crown Jewel
Comparing the trio, Cross River State claims the title of “The Most Economic State” for Dirty December. Lagos thrills but burdens; the FCT impresses but excludes. Cross River balances the vibrancy with value: hotels under N40,000 nightly, meals at N2,500, transport below N3,000. This allows immersion without debt. As a Tribune Online analysis affirms, it democratizes fun and proves cultural depth trumps extravagance.
Tips for Thrifty Revelers in Cross River
For those eyeing Cross River:
1. Secure hotels by October to lock in 20% savings amid carnival demand.
2. Opt for local eats like pepper soup that cost under N3,000 versus imports.
3. Share rides to cut transport in half.
4. Engage with residents for authentic experiences beyond tours.
5. Budget N200,000–N300,000 for a full week, per economic estimates.
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To this end, “Dirty December” embodies Nigeria’s resilience: dancing through hardships, forging bonds under harmattan skies, enjoying holidays on a low budget. Still, in tough times, Cross River proves to us that true celebration thrives in shared, affordable realms, not just glittering facades.
