For many Nigerians at home and abroad, Detty December has long been a highlight of the year — a time to enjoy live performances from top artists, reconnect with friends, and soak up the festive spirit.

This year, however, the excitement has been tempered by a growing debate over ticket prices, which have surged to unprecedented levels.

Traditionally, regular tickets were affordable, ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000, with VIP and table reservations costing more. Today, general admission tickets have skyrocketed to ₦120,000–₦300,000, sparking frustration and resistance among fans. Many now choose to attend only one event, while others stay away entirely.

On social media, reactions were sharp:

• One fan said, “Asake 300k? 300k to stand, lol. All these artists are thinking we dey share money with bandit. Where person wan see 300k?”
• Another added, “It’s cheaper abroad and costlier in the country that made you and gave you platform.”

Industry insiders explain the price hike as a reflection of rising production costs. Bigger stages, advanced lighting, international-standard sound equipment, security, venue rentals, and logistical challenges — often priced in dollars — all drive up the cost of delivering high-quality concerts.

Stage manager Andrawine said, “Logistics, moving equipment across cities, customs, power supply, generators, accommodation, and extended setup times all add up quickly. Safety and crowd control are no longer optional — they’re priorities. To break even, ticket prices inevitably rise.”

Despite these explanations, fans argue that the jump in regular ticket prices makes Detty December a luxury experience for a few, rather than a shared cultural celebration. As one attendee noted, “Civil servants cannot branch this place, but politician’s kids can buy thousands of tickets.”

Many fans also pointed out the irony of paying high fees after streaming music online, often generating millions for artists. “All the money una don dey make, una no fit use am subsidize show?” asked one frustrated user.

The surge in prices has shifted attendance patterns. Smaller club shows and intimate performances are seeing renewed interest, as fans look for more affordable alternatives. Notably, ticket pricing is often set by organizers, not the artists themselves, though artists’ fees to organizers also contribute to the final cost.

Experts warn that the December rush itself — with multiple high-profile concerts packed into a short period — gives organizers leverage to raise prices, while some promoters believe the market will eventually self-correct if fans resist high costs consistently.

Ultimately, Detty December concerts now reflect broader economic pressures. While the festive excitement remains, access to live music is increasingly limited by affordability, forcing organizers, artists, and audiences to rethink the value and sustainability of these events.