By Priscilla Osaje
Organisers of the Groovy December tourism and entertainment fiesta say preparations are in top gear for the maiden edition scheduled to hold in Abuja from Dec. 15 to Dec. 31, 2025.
The Project Coordinator, Dr Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, told newsmen on Wednesday that the event, featuring more than 35 activities, is supported by the FCT Administration (FCTA) under the leadership of the Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike.
He said the initiative aims to rebrand Abuja as a leading destination for tourism, culture, and entertainment for Nigerians and visitors from across the world.
“The minister has enabled Abuja for tourism, culture, and entertainment. We are using this platform to show that the city is ready for global visibility,” he said.
Ibe-Kalu said preparations for the event began in May, with over 45 coordinators in Europe and America mobilising Nigerians in the diaspora to participate.
According to him, many Nigerians abroad have shown interest in returning home for the celebration, which is expected to boost local tourism and hospitality businesses.
He said hotels partnering with the project would offer between 25 and 50 per cent discounts to registered participants, noting that the fiesta could raise occupancy rates to about 70 per cent.
“Tourism drives the economy. Hotel owners, vendors, and transport operators will benefit from increased business during the period,” he said.
He added that the event would engage about 600 volunteers and provide opportunities for vendors to showcase local food, crafts, fashion, and entertainment.
The coordinator said the organisers were working closely with the FCTA’s Social Development and Women Affairs Secretariats to ensure a successful outing.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Creative Economy, as well as the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, were also key partners in the project.
“Several private companies, including the makers of Peak Milk, have joined as sponsors. Security agencies have also pledged full support to guarantee safety during the celebrations,” he said.
Ibe-Kalu said the main event would hold at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, while the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had approved information desks at four airports nationwide.
He said the two-week celebration would feature a food and drink festival, boxing competitions, a beauty pageant, a coffee and ice cream festival, and other cultural showcases.
He called on residents, tourists, and Nigerians in the diaspora to support the initiative, describing it as a milestone in promoting Abuja as Africa’s emerging tourism capital.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Groovy December fiesta aims to position Abuja as a vibrant destination for leisure, investment, and growth in the creative industry. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
