Festive Season Money: 5 Businesses That Boom in Nigeria Every December
Every December in Nigeria carries a vibe that can’t be copied anywhere else in the world. The air changes. The traffic doubles. Prices jump. “Detty December” plans rise like harmattan dust. And suddenly, everybody is either preparing to travel, going for events, doing shopping, or collecting aso ebi for one cousin’s wedding you didn’t know was happening.
But while many people are spending, smart Nigerians are earning—and earning well.
December is that month when even small ideas become big money, because Nigerians don’t play with enjoyment, travel, food, or family gatherings.
If you’ve been thinking of a side hustle or a quick business move before year-end, here are 5 businesses you can cash out from this festive season.
1. Travel & Logistics: The “Village Runs” Business
Every December, parks overflow with travellers heading home.
If you stand near Jibowu, Mararaba, Mile 2, New Garage Ibadan, Upper Iweka—anywhere—what you’ll see is pure madness.
Luggages everywhere. Foodstuff everywhere. People everywhere.
And in all this chaos lies money.
Where the money is:
* Interstate transport booking (help people secure seats when buses are jam-packed).
* Home delivery of food items for people sending goods up-country.
* Personal shopper for travellers (“Abeg, help me buy laptop bag, travel box, provisions…”).
* Logistics delivery within the city—everyone is sending out gifts, hampers & Christmas items.
This is peak travel season, and people will pay for convenience.
With just WhatsApp, a bike rider, and small organisation, you can make steady cash.
2. Food Business: The “Mama Put, Detty December Edition”
In December, stomach infrastructure becomes national priority.
People are attending weddings, concerts, picnics, end-of-year Thanksgiving, office hangouts, and family gatherings.
Nobody wants to stress over cooking.
Where the money is:
* Small chops platter
* Home-cooked meal bowls (jollof, fried rice, grilled chicken, goat meat)
* Outdoor catering for events
* Food trays for lovers/families
* Zobo, Chapman, and bottled cocktails at events
December is the one month Nigerians buy food like water. And if your food “choke”, referrals will finish you (in a good way).
3. Fashion & Styling: Because “No Gree For Anybody” December
Once December hits, tailors start forming “fully booked,” and stylists suddenly become hot cake.
Because Nigerians must dress to oppress for every event—weddings, concerts, crossover service, owambes, and the famous “Detty December” nights.
Where the money is:
* Ready-made aso ebi styles
* Men’s native wear on express delivery
* Makeup services (especially December weddings)
* Wig installation & braiding
* Children’s Christmas outfits
* Laundry & ironing services for travellers staying in hotels or with family
Nobody wants to look basic. December fashions are not for the fainthearted.
4. Event Services: Enjoyment Industry On Fire
If you’re anywhere near Lagos, Abuja, Portharcourt, Owerri or even Uyo in December, you’ll understand that parties multiply like pure water.
From concerts to comedy shows, from weddings to outdoor picnics—every weekend is double-booked.
Where the money is:
* Event decoration
* DJ and MC services
* Rental business (chairs, canopies, speakers, coolers, plates)
* Photography & videography
* Ushering services
* Sound and lighting equipment
People want stress-free celebrations. The enjoyment economy in December is one of Nigeria’s biggest industries—quietly worth billions.
5. Dry Season/Christmas Farming: “Harmattan Money”
Harmattan is that period when tomatoes suddenly become 1,000 naira per bucket today and N4,000 naira next week.
Vegetables dry up. Goat meat price goes crazy. Rice sellers smile like people who just won Lotto.
Where the money is:
* Selling Christmas goats
* Selling fresh vegetables and tomatoes (even in small quantities)
* Rice retailing
* Palm oil, crayfish, and spices for December cooking
* Packaging foodstuff gifts for families
December cooking is serious business, and people buy in bulk for family gatherings. Even a small stall or online foodstuff bundle can bring in sweet profit.
Goodluck In Advance
Every December, Nigeria turns into a giant marketplace of hustle and enjoyment—two things we never fail at. While some are spending, others are cashing out heavily. The secret is simple:
Find what people desperately need this season, and sell it with sense.
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Whether you’re delivering food, dressing people up for their events, helping travellers, or selling Christmas goats—there’s money waiting for you.
And the best part?
You don’t need millions to start.
Just consistency, packaging, and a little December sharpness.
