Nigeria’s annual December surge has once again positioned the country as the heartbeat of Africa’s festive tourism scene. From the pulsating “Dirty December” influx to fully booked hotels, overflowing short let apartments, and lavish entertainment events, the industry finds itself navigating one of its busiest seasons in years. Yet beneath the excitement, the sector is undergoing deeper transformation as hotel pipelines expand, investor interest rises, guest standards evolve, and returning diaspora professionals reshape workforce culture.
These shifts, according to hospitality expert and Founder of Jay Consulting, Jimmy Antonios are creating a defining moment for Nigeria’s service ecosystem. Speaking on News Day, Antonios examined the opportunities and pressures shaping the December boom and what the industry should anticipate as it moves toward 2026.
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He noted that Nigeria’s hospitality sector has experienced consistent growth over the past decade, with an exceptional leap in the last three to four years. As an executive within The Delborough Lagos, he highlighted the calibre of visitors the brand has hosted, ranging from global dignitaries to celebrities including 18 presidents and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan. He added that global recognition is no longer aspirational but a present reality.
“Nigeria has become a game changer in hospitality,” Antonios explained. “Every year, we improve. Every year, the vibe increases. There is hardly any country that does not know what Nigeria has to offer in December.” The Delborough’s international accolades, including multiple Seven Star Luxury Awards for Best Luxury Concept and Best Hotel in Africa and West Africa, have strengthened the nation’s credibility.
When asked whether operators are prepared for the December rush amid inflation, rising food costs, and operational strain, Antonios emphasized the importance of structure and strategic planning. “There will always be challenges, but proper forecasting and strong budgeting systems keep us prepared,” he said. He credited the foundation of The Delborough’s ethos to its visionary founder, Dr. Stanley Uzukwu, whose Pan African outlook and impact driven philosophy guide the brand’s resilience and innovation.
The hospitality, travel, and tourism sector added about ₦7.2 trillion to Nigeria’s GDP earlier this year, a figure Antonios describes as proof of the industry’s emerging dominance beyond oil and agriculture. “The sector is creating thousands and even millions of jobs,” he noted. “This industry does not just generate revenue. It sustains lives across the country.”
With the rise of short let apartments and other alternative lodging options, competition has intensified. Antonios believes the market is large enough for everyone but maintains that what sets hospitality apart is experience. He stressed that true hospitality goes beyond providing a room and lies in the warmth, the welcome, and the memorable moments that define a guest’s stay.
To stay competitive, continuous evolution is essential. At Danny Restaurant, The Delborough’s Michelin standard dining hub, the brand engaged a Michelin star consulting chef to craft a globally aligned yet Nigerian inspired menu. This is only one example of the many steps taken to maintain an edge in a rapidly changing market.
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Looking ahead, Antonios projects a strong and steady climb for the sector, assuming no major disruptions occur. “Healthy organic growth in hospitality ranges from 10 percent to 15 percent annually,” he said. “We are in a growth phase, and with the right evolution and structure, the sector will continue to rise in 2026.”
As Nigeria enters another high energy December season, industry observers agree that the country stands on the brink of a renewed hospitality revolution guided by the insights and leadership of experts like Jimmy Antonios, Founder of Jay Consulting.
