By Priscilla Osaje
The first-ever Groovy December Festival kicked off on Monday at Jabi Lake, Abuja, as a 17-day event aimed at promoting tourism, culture and entertainment, organisers said.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, Project Coordinator of The Emerging Abuja Projects, said the festival is designed to curate year-end entertainment for residents and visitors.
“Groovy December is just a component of the Emerging Abuja programme to provide various kinds of events that will promote tourism via culture, arts and crafts, and entertainment.
“Abuja is usually dormant during this season, and our aim is to ensure that people stay, enjoy the festivities, and contribute to the city’s economy. It will keep our youth engaged, provide entertainment for families, and boost local businesses,” Ibe-Kalu said.
Ibe-Kalu expressed optimism about the future of the festival, saying “We believe that by the third edition, we will attract over 50,000 Nigerians and members of the diaspora.
“This is just the beginning, and we are confident it will grow bigger and better each year,” he said.
He noted that the event has received support from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, and several private sector sponsors.
Also, Mr Imoh Ebong, Chairman of Groovy December 2025 and Beyond, described the festival as a milestone for the city.
“It’s a wonderful moment to see Groovy December move beyond the drawing board and come to life. Over the next 17 days, there’s nonstop fun; skating, horse riding, golf, boat rides, and cultural performances.
“We invite everyone watching this, wherever you are in the world, to come to Abuja, Nigeria, and experience the uniqueness of our city. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why an ‘Abujan’ is more than just a resident—it’s a title of pride,” he said.
Also commending the organisers, Dr Christopher Ibrahim said he initially thought the idea was a joke.
“When I first heard about this idea, I honestly thought it was a joke. But seeing the opening ceremony tonight, I can say they really got it right.
“If we continue on this path, I truly believe that in the next five years, 20 million members of the diaspora will return home to Nigeria, and to Abuja to celebrate their Christmas with us,” he said.
The festival, running from Dec. 15 to Dec. 31, features local wrestling competitions, boat rides, jet skiing, horse riding, skating, golf, and tours to popular destinations including Karshi Waterfalls.
Organisers also announced special discounts at partner hotels for attendees from Abuja, other states, and the diaspora.
The festival also includes the Groovy December Golf Kitty Championship at Jonathan Golf Course and the Emerging Abuja Diaspora Investment Forum on Dec. 17, where organisers expect over 200 diasporans to attend. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
