Abuja: 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, stated that the festival is part of the broader Imagine Abuja programme, designed to curate year-end entertainment for residents and visitors.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the festival is a component of the Imagine Abuja program to provide various kinds of events that will promote tourism via culture, arts and crafts, and entertainment. Dr Ibe-Kalu highlighted that Abuja is usually dormant during this season, and their aim is to ensure that people stay, enjoy the festivities, and contribute to the city’s economy. It is designed to keep youth engaged, provide entertainment for families, and boost local businesses. He also expressed optimism about the future of the festival, believing that by the third edition, they will attract over 50,000 Nigerians and members of the diaspora.
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. Mr Imoh Ebong, Chairman of Groovy December 2025 and Beyond, described the festival as a milestone for the city. He emphasized the nonstop fun over the next 17 days, including activities like skating, horse riding, golf, boat rides, and cultural performances.
Mr Ebong extended an invitation to everyone worldwide to come to Abuja, Nigeria, and experience the uniqueness of the city. He added that being an ‘Abujan’ is more than just a resident-it’s a title of pride. Also commending the organisers, Dr Christopher Ibrahim mentioned his initial skepticism, thinking the idea was a joke. However, after witnessing the opening ceremony, he believes the organisers got it right and hopes that in the next five years, 20 million members of the diaspora will return home to Nigeria and Abuja to celebrate Christmas.
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.