More Than Just Detty December: Why Lagos Is A Land of Opportunity

For so many of us in the diaspora, Africa has always existed in fragments—stories from our parents, glimpses through the news, the occasional family trip (if we were lucky), and, more recently, the highlight reels on social media. But beyond the nostalgia, the heritage, and the party scenes, Africa is more than just countries to visit. It’s a place where you can lay down roots, build something meaningful, and live the life you’ve always imagined.

I know this because I did it.

Finding My Way Home

I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, but my roots trace back to Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Ikwerre by blood, American by birth, I grew up in that unique in-between space—straddling cultures, learning to switch seamlessly between the world of suburban Columbus, the vibrant Nigerian community we were deeply immersed in, and the African-American spaces where I also found belonging.

My parents made sure my siblings and I knew exactly who we were—not just as Nigerians, but as Ikwerre people. They gave us strong, intentional names, instilled pride in our identity, and reminded us that everything they worked for in America was with a bigger picture in mind. They invested in Port Harcourt for decades—buying land, building properties, and securing assets. Not because they didn’t value their life in the U.S., but because they understood something crucial: Africa is a place where legacy can be built.

I didn’t fully understand that at first.

My first trip to Nigeria was when I was 18. That was my first taste of home, my first real experience of the energy that makes Nigeria so… Nigeria. But it wasn’t until I did NYSC in 2015–2016 that things started clicking for me.

Living in Abeokuta, navigating daily life on a tiny stipend, and experiencing the country beyond the insulated lens of a family visit gave me a different perspective. I lived simply, and I loved it. It was peaceful, grounding. It was also where my entrepreneurial spirit first started to awaken. I saw opportunity everywhere.

Lagos: The Turning Point

Like many of us in the diaspora, I got caught up in the hype of Detty December. My first one was in 2017, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint. I danced till sunrise, met incredible people, and got my first real taste of the energy and ambition that fuels Lagos.

2018? Even better. 2019? Epic. But something changed for me after that one. It wasn’t just about the parties anymore. It was about the people I was meeting, the ideas I was hearing, the businesses I was seeing people build. It was the way Lagos made me feel—like I was in the right place, like I was supposed to be here.

So when 2020 rolled around and the world shut down, I just… stayed. No plan, no real network, just vibes and an unshakable feeling that I was exactly where I needed to be.

The Reality of Building a Life Here

I won’t sugarcoat it—relocating to Nigeria isn’t for the faint of heart. Since moving here, I’ve launched things, failed at things, been frustrated by the systems and status quo, loved and lost, built friendships, lost friendships, had my mental health tested, and experienced moments so beautiful they felt unreal.

But through it all, one thing has remained constant: my conviction that I belong here. My purpose is here. My greatest impact will be here.

And if you’ve ever felt that pull—if you’ve ever visited and felt something inside you shift, if you’ve found yourself daydreaming about what life could look like for you in Nigeria or anywhere else in Africa—then maybe, just maybe, you belong here too.

The Opportunities Are Real

Beyond the parties and nostalgia, there are real opportunities here. Lagos, in particular, is a hub for:

• Business & Investment – Lagos contributes over 25% of Nigeria’s GDP and is home to some of Africa’s most innovative startups, from fintech giants to fashion houses shaping global trends. If you know how to navigate it, the opportunities are endless.

• Community & Networking – The entrepreneurial energy here is unmatched. Lagos isn’t just a city; it’s a networking goldmine where the right connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

• Lifestyle & Culture – Lagos offers a lifestyle that is dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with luxury, adventure, and cultural richness—if you know where to look.

  
  

And if you’re wondering where to start, Jaiye has you covered.

Whether you want to deep-dive into the business scene, explore the creative landscape, or experience Lagos beyond the surface, here are some curated trips that can help:

• Lagos By Design – This trip will have you front row at Lagos Fashion Week, exploring cutting-edge art at Art X Lagos, and immersing yourself in the best of African fashion, design, and luxury experiences.

  
  

  

  
  

• The Business Blueprint – This your VIP access to Lagos’ booming industries. From real estate to tech, we’ll connect you with industry leaders, show you prime investment opportunities, and make sure you’re having fun while making smart moves.

  
  

  

  
  

• Detty December in Lagos – Lasgidi Unleashed is your all-access pass to the wildest, most unforgettable December in Lagos. Day parties, exclusive concerts, boat cruises, nightlife, culture—you name it, we’ve got it lined up.

  
  

  

  
  

• Campus to Coast –  A chance for college students, spring breakers & summer travelers to experience Lagos at its most exciting. Think beach days, nightlife, local adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime.

  
  

  

  
  

• The Legacy League – Designed for those looking to build and sustain generational wealth in Nigeria and beyond.

  
  

  

  
  

Making the Move

Relocation doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Start by visiting with intention. Explore not just as a tourist, but as someone considering what life here could look like. Connect with people. Ask questions. Understand the landscape.

And when you’re ready to take it further, Jaiye offers relocation services to make the transition smoother:

• Short & Long-Term Housing Assistance – From high-rise apartments in Victoria Island to serene homes in Lekki, we help you find the perfect place to live.

• Remote Work Setup – Need to maintain your U.S. or UK job while living in Lagos? We assist with co-working spaces, internet solutions, and business structuring.

• Visa & Residency Support – From work visas to residency permits, we help you navigate the legal aspects of staying in Nigeria long-term.

• Cultural & Business Integration – We connect you to industry leaders, local communities, and cultural hubs, ensuring you transition with ease and confidence.

  
  

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign, consider this it. Africa isn’t just a place to visit. It’s a place to build, to thrive, to belong.

And maybe, just maybe, it’s been calling you home all along.