The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to direct relevant agencies to expand the annual “Detty December” celebrations.

The House passed the resolution on Tuesday at the end of the plenary presided over by the speaker, Mojisola Meranda, in Ikeja.

Detty December refers to the festive period, typically from mid-December through the New Year, when parties, shows, and celebrations are held in different parts of the state.

It is a time when many Nigerians, both within the country and in the diaspora, return home to celebrate with family and friends.

Speaking during plenary, Ms Meranda said there was the need to institutionalise the celebrations and maximise the publicity of events during the period, emphasising the need for improved traffic management.

The speaker advocated local governments’ participation in decentralising and broadening the benefits of Detty December.

She suggested that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) employ additional personnel for the festive season, creating temporary jobs for residents.

Earlier, Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1), who raised the motion, highlighted the significant revenue generated from the 2024 Detty December celebrations.

Mr Elliot said the report from the anniversary indicated that hotels earned approximately $44 million, while short-term rental services recorded $13 million, totalling about $71.6 million.

In his comment, Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) noted that Lagos had the necessary infrastructure and an enabling environment to attract tourists and visiting family members.

Mr Yishawu called for a coordinated events calendar and the development of an iconic tourism site to expand the activities of Detty December and boost tourism.

Abiodun Tobun (Epe 1) argued that Detty December contributed to crime reduction through the engagement of potential offenders in recreational activities.

Also, Sa’ad Olumo (Ajeromi 1) emphasised the state’s commitment to promoting culture, security, and business growth.

(NAN)