As Detty December approaches, Lagos warns hotels and restaurants that ignore bookings made months ago.
Moreover, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced that the government will publicly name operators exploiting the festive rush.
Booking Breaches Under Fire
Some operators prioritise last-minute clients willing to pay more, and as a result, they cancel or inflate prior reservations.
Last Thursday, Sanwo-Olu met 250 hospitality operators at the Marina to confront the growing problem.
Government Takes Action
He emphasised that chasing short-term gains during Detty December can ruin reputations for the rest of the year.
“If someone booked months ago and you change terms, you destroy trust and damage your branding,” he said.
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Therefore, the government will name, shame, and enforce sanctions against operators who ignore prior commitments.
Additionally, residents and visitors should report breaches to the Ministry of Tourism, Safety Commission, or Consumer Protection authorities.
Once authorities receive proof of booking, they will investigate and ensure operators respect earlier commitments and follow regulations.
Detty December Stakes
Detty December drives Lagos’ economy because it attracts thousands of tourists and generates millions in revenue.
In 2024, Lagos welcomed over 18,000 international tourists, earning $71.6 million in festive revenue.
Hotels contributed $44 million, while short-let apartments added $13 million, which highlights Lagos’ tourism strength.
However, rising prices and poor service threaten the city’s reputation as Africa’s entertainment and tourism hub.
Furthermore, President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria, Femi Fadina, urged operators to act fairly and comply with regulations.
Sanwo-Olu’s crackdown aims to protect consumers, maintain trust, and preserve Lagos’ hospitality standards.
Ultimately, the message is clear: if you booked early, you must honour your reservation without excuses.
Lagos now sends a strong signal that businesses cannot prioritise holiday profits over fairness.
