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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
Preparations are in top gear for the maiden edition of the Groovy December Tourism and Entertainment Fiesta, scheduled to hold in Abuja from 15 to 31 December 2025.
Project Coordinator Dr Kenneth Ibe-Kalu said the event, which will feature more than 35 exciting activities, enjoys the full support of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under the leadership of the Minister, Nyesom Wike.
He explained that the initiative is part of efforts to rebrand Abuja as a leading destination for tourism, culture, and entertainment, placing the city firmly on the global tourism map.
“The Minister has enabled Abuja for tourism, culture, and entertainment. We are using this platform to show that the city is ready for global recognition,” Ibe-Kalu stated.
According to him, preparations for the fiesta began in May, with over 45 coordinators in Europe and America mobilising Nigerians in the diaspora to participate. He added that many Nigerians abroad have shown strong interest in returning home for the event, which is expected to significantly boost tourism and stimulate the local economy.
Partner hotels will offer 25 to 50 per cent discounts to registered participants, a move projected to raise hotel occupancy rates to about 70 per cent during the festive period.
“Tourism drives the economy. Hotel owners, vendors, and transport operators will benefit from increased business during the celebration,” he added.
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The event will engage about 600 volunteers and provide a platform for vendors to showcase local food, crafts, fashion, and entertainment.
Ibe-Kalu disclosed that the organisers are working closely with the FCTA’s Social Development and Women Affairs Secretariats, the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Creative Economy, and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) to ensure a successful outing.
He further revealed that several private companies, including the makers of Peak Milk, have come on board as sponsors, while security agencies have pledged their full support to guarantee safety throughout the event.
The main celebration will hold at the Abuja Stadium, with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) approving information desks at four airports nationwide to assist visiting tourists.
Highlights of the two-week fiesta will include a food and drink festival, boxing competitions, a beauty pageant, a coffee and ice cream festival, and various cultural showcases.
Ibe-Kalu urged residents, tourists, and Nigerians in the diaspora to key into the initiative, describing it as a milestone project aimed at promoting Abuja as Africa’s emerging tourism capital.
