The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to direct relevant agencies to expand the annual “Detty December” celebrations in the state.
The House passed the resolution at the end of the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, in Ikeja on Tuesday
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Detty December refers to the festive period, typically from mid-December through the New Year when parties, shows and celebrations are held in different parts of the state.
It is a time when many Nigerians, both within the country and in the diaspora, return home to celebrate with family and friends.
Speaking during plenary, Meranda said there was the need to institutionalise the celebrations and maximise the publicity of events during the period, emphasising the need for improved traffic management.
The speaker advocated local governments’ participation to decentralise and broaden the benefits of Detty December.
She suggested that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) employ additional personnel for the festive season, creating temporary jobs for residents.
Earlier, Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) who raised the motion, highlighted the significant revenue generated from the 2024 Detty December celebrations.
Elliot said the report from the anniversary indicated that hotels earned approximately 44 million dollars, while short-term rental services recorded 13 million dollars, totalling about 71.6 million dollars.
In his comment, Mr Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) noted that Lagos had the necessary infrastructure and an enabling environment to attract tourists and visiting family members.
Yishawu, however, called for a coordinated events calendar and development of an iconic tourism site in the state to expand the activities of Detty December and boost tourism.
Contributing, Mr Abiodun Tobun (Epe 1) argued that Detty December contributed to crime reduction through engagement of potential offenders in recreational activities.
Also, Mr Sa’ad Olumo (Ajeromi 1) emphasised the state’s commitment to promoting culture, security, and business growth. (NAN)
