Abuja launches first-ever groovy December festival to boost tourism, culture
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) came alive on Monday as the inaugural Groovy December Festival officially kicked off at Jabi Lake.
The 17-day event aimed to showcase Abuja’s rich culture, promote tourism, and provide entertainment for residents and visitors alike.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, Project Coordinator of The Emerging Abuja Projects, described the festival as a key component of the broader Imagine Abuja initiative, which curates year-end activities to stimulate economic and social engagement in the city.
“Groovy December is designed to offer a variety of events—from arts, crafts, and cultural exhibitions to music, sports, and entertainment.
”Abuja tends to be quiet during this season, and our goal is to encourage people to stay, enjoy the festivities, and contribute to the city’s economy,” Ibe-Kalu explained.
He added that the festival will particularly engage the youth, entertain families, and support local businesses.
Optimistic about the festival’s growth, Ibe-Kalu projected that by its third edition, attendance could surpass 50,000, including Nigerians from the diaspora.
He emphasised that strong partnerships with the FCTA, the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, as well as private sponsors, have been instrumental in bringing the event to life.
Mr. Imoh Ebong, Chairman of Groovy December 2025 and Beyond, described the launch as a historic moment for Abuja.
“Over the next 17 days, attendees will experience nonstop activities such as skating, horse riding, golf, boat rides, and cultural performances.
”This festival highlights why being an ‘Abujan’ is a title of pride,” Ebong said.
The festival’s appeal was also endorsed by Dr. Christopher Ibrahim, who admitted that he initially thought the project was merely conceptual.
“Seeing the opening ceremony, I can confidently say they got it right. If this trajectory continues, I expect that within five years, millions of Nigerians in the diaspora will return to Abuja to celebrate the festive season,” he said.
Highlights of the Groovy December Festival include local wrestling competitions, jet skiing, horse riding, skating, golf, and guided tours to attractions such as Karshi Waterfalls.
Attendees can also enjoy special hotel discounts arranged through festival partnerships.
Notable events include the Groovy December Golf Kitty Championship at Jonathan Golf Course and the Emerging Abuja Diaspora Investment Forum scheduled for December 17, which is expected to draw over 200 diasporans interested in investment opportunities.
Organisers are confident that the festival will become an annual hallmark, combining entertainment, culture, and economic growth to position Abuja as a premier holiday destination in Nigeria.
