If you’re a non-Nigerian visiting the country for the first time, especially during the Christmas celebration, have it at the back of your mind that Christmas in Nigeria is different from your regular holiday; it’s a lifestyle, a vibe, and a nationwide project.
Once the calendar flips into the “ember” months (a family name for September, October, November, and December), the air starts tingling with a certain magic. There’s just something in the air. The weather becomes a tad cooler (thank you, harmattan), streets light up with decorations, and even the most indifferent Nigerians find themselves humming to carols in the middle of a busy day.
The anticipation starts building from October. Malls, companies, and stores start decorating their halls and surroundings with Christmas lights and artificial trees. The atmosphere becomes more “Christmassy”. By November, the momentum picks up, and by December? It’s full-blown Christmas fever.
Matter of fact, Nigerians don’t wait for December 25 to start preparing for Christmas; the festivities are on their radar as soon as the ember months roll in. Markets become busier, and conversations start revolving around plans for December—often referred to as “Dirty December” for the whirlwind of parties, hangouts, concerts, and reunions it promises. The festive period is seen as a reward after enduring the year’s grind, and Nigerians leave no stone unturned in milking every ounce of joy out of it.
Interestingly, no Nigerian Christmas is complete without a lamentation about skyrocketing prices. Foodstuffs, transport fares, and even basic goods inflate like the speed of light. Prices of foodstuffs—especially essentials like rice, chicken, tomatoes, and vegetable oil—skyrocket during this period. It’s almost like the vendors got the memo that “Jesus is the reason for the season” and decided to cash in. But guess what? Nigerians are unbeatable in adaptability – It’s inborn. Despite the price hikes, markets still remain crowded as families strategize on how to pull off a Christmas feast that will impress relatives and neighbours alike.
AI image showing Nigerian children enjoying a festive meal of rice and chicken in an outdoor Christmas setting
Tailors and hairdressers are the real ‘deal’ during this season. Booking them in November is almost mandatory, as procrastinators may find themselves without the perfect aso ebi or braids for the season. These artisans work overtime to meet the surge in demand, stitching, sewing, and styling their way into the new year.
For many Nigerians abroad, December is sacred. It’s the ultimate homecoming season. Lagos, Abuja, and other bustling cities receive an influx of sons and daughters of the soil in the diaspora, coming home to reconnect with family. Airports like Murtala Mohammed in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe in Abuja are packed with joyous reunions, and the streets are livelier than ever. Nowhere is the Christmas buzz more evident than in Lagos. This city transforms into a carnival of lights, traffic jams (more than usual), and endless activities. This homecoming often sets the tone for “Dirty December,” where the parties, concerts, and hangouts are as numerous as they are memorable.
What’s a Nigerian Christmas without endless gatherings? Jollof rice, chicken, goat meat, and a parade of soups and stews dominate every table. Everywhere you go, there’s always enough food to go around. In Nigeria, December is a time to unwind, reconnect, and celebrate in grand style, no matter the state of the economy. From beach parties to concerts, weddings, and elaborate get-togethers, there’s no shortage of events to keep you busy.
Corporate Nigeria isn’t left out. End-of-the-year parties become a competitive sport, with organizations pulling out all the stops to host the most talked-about events. It’s like an unspoken rule. Office halls transform into mini wonderlands, and social media fills with photos of employees flaunting their Christmas hampers and party outfits. Prizes and awards are given to best performing employees with others left to join in the competition the following year. But the aim is simple: outdo last year’s party. Schools also join the festive train, hosting end-of-term celebrations complete with Father Christmas (Santa Claus) handing out gifts to ecstatic children.
Highlight of the season is the Christmas carols transforming churches into spaces of soulful worship and spirited performances. Popular hymns like “O Holy Night” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” fill the air, bringing people together in praise and joy.
AI image showcasing adults enjoying a lively Nigerian Christmas party, full of music, dancing, and festive decorations.
Celebrating Despite Economic Challenges?
Yes, the economy is in shambles. Inflation is a constant companion, and most Nigerians will tell you, “Things are hard.” But when it comes to Christmas, we thrive on a mix of optimism and creativity. Families save up all year, contributing to community savings schemes like ajo or esusu, just to ensure their loved ones have a proper celebration. After all, the festive season is about togetherness, even if it means having a scaled-down version of the party.
The economy might be tough, but Nigerians are tougher. Christmas provides a temporary escape—a time to forget about the fuel scarcity, exchange rates, or rising cost of living. It’s a celebration of life, family, and the hope for better days ahead.
What’s your favourite thing about celebrating Christmas in Nigeria? Share in the comments.
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