The Federal Government is set to elevate the iconic Detty December celebrations with a major new cultural showcase. The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, in partnership with Irabor Creative Minds, has officially unveiled plans for the first-ever Nigerian Foods and Culture Festival.
A Premier Event for Economic Growth and Unity
The festival is scheduled to hold from December 16 to 17, 2025, at the Cricket Pitch within the historic Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos. The Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Esq., announced the event during a press briefing in Abuja, framing it as a strategic initiative. She stated the festival represents a concrete commitment to using the power of art, culture, and tourism to fuel economic development, create jobs, and strengthen national unity.
Musawa explained that Lagos was selected as the host city because of its established status as Nigeria's premier hub for cultural and creative excellence. She emphasized the government's full backing for the event, linking it directly to the popular Detty December tradition.
"Detty December is a popular cultural event originating from Lagos, and the federal government will provide all necessary support to ensure a safe, beautiful, and culturally enriching experience for the international community and lovers of culture and creativity," the Minister said. "This will be a bigger Detty December, and we envision a future where the Nigerian Foods and Culture Festival becomes a premier cultural event, attracting visitors from around the world."
Security, Youth Empowerment, and a Global Invitation
Addressing concerns about safety for such a large-scale event, the managing partners gave firm assurances. Jude Irabor Uwagbai, the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Irabor Creative Minds, confirmed that comprehensive security arrangements are in place.
"We are working with Lagos State’s Lion Building Police to ensure the safety of all participants," Uwagbai stated. "We are inviting the world to Lagos, Nigeria to come and experience our culture."
Educational and Economic Opportunities for Youth
Beyond the festivities, the festival is designed to have a lasting impact on young Nigerians. Uwagbai disclosed that a key component of the event will be practical training sessions for school students in various arts and crafts. This initiative aims to empower Nigerian youth by equipping them with skills to celebrate and commercially market the nation's rich heritage.
"The festival will also allow students to learn how to create art pieces and crafts that celebrate Nigerian heritage," he added, highlighting the dual focus on cultural promotion and youth capacity building.
With its combination of culinary showcases, artistic displays, and strategic plans for youth engagement and security, the inaugural Nigerian Foods and Culture Festival is poised to become a landmark event in Nigeria's cultural calendar, offering a vibrant and safe platform to experience the nation's diversity during the festive Detty December period.
