Detty December in Nigeria has always been a season of frenzy — airports overflowing, concerts selling out, and major cities buzzing with returning diaspora and holiday seekers. But this year, a major shift is unfolding in the hospitality scene: shortlet apartments, once the kings of festive lodging, are experiencing a surprising mass boycott.
As December kicked off, travelers were shocked to find shortlet prices skyrocketing to unbelievable levels, especially in Lagos and Abuja. Properties that once offered affordable comfort are now charging extreme rates, pushing many Nigerians back to traditional hotels.
And this time, the switch isn’t quiet — it’s loud, collective, and fueled by frustration.
Travelers Push Back as Shortlet Prices Hit “Ridiculous” Levels
For years, shortlet apartments became the go-to option for December travelers seeking convenience, privacy, and more space. But this December, the experience has taken a turn.
Lifestyle creator @Sisi_Yemmie, echoing widespread dissatisfaction, revealed that managers of shortlet apartments are already complaining about low bookings.
“Their greed is too much. I’ve gone to book hotel jejely. I’d rather book five rooms in a hotel than deal with shortlet drama.”
Her statement captured a sentiment many Nigerians quietly share: December pricing has gone from premium to predatory.
Another user, @emekagadi, questioned why shortlets remain popular at all when hotels offer better value:
“Hotels give free breakfast, some even free lunch. I don’t even understand the hype around shortlets.”
Bad Experiences and Hidden Fees Drive Guests Away
Beyond overpricing, many Nigerians say their past experiences with shortlets have been terrible.
@TonyAbah01 noted that several of his friends now completely avoid Airbnb-style rentals after “bitter Lagos experiences.” This December, all 11 of them are staying in hotels without hesitation.
The dissatisfaction extends to booking agents too.
According to @AdisaAkomolede, who helps clients secure short-term rentals, some hosts have raised prices to five times the normal rate — a move that has scared away even loyal customers.
In Abuja, users say the story is the same.
@KriscrisG disclosed that many shortlet owners are already abandoning the business or switching to long-term leases because the December market has become “too overpriced to survive.”
For others, the stress alone is enough reason to withdraw.
As @TuslowT put it:
“Shortlet get too much wahala.”
And @Humanxxx001 highlighted the avalanche of additional charges — cleaning fees, service fees, and “every stupid fee known to man” — insisting hotels remain the smarter choice.
Flashback to Detty December 2024: When Shortlets Still Thrived
Just a year ago, Lagos was the epicenter of Detty December festivities. According to a report by MO Africa Company Limited covering November 19–December 26, 2024:
- Hotels led the pack with ₦54 billion in revenue from 15,000 December bookings.
- Shortlet apartments earned ₦21 billion from nearly 6,000 bookings — even with reduced demand and high pricing (average rate: ₦120,000 per night).
- Lagos’ top 15 nightclubs generated ₦4.32 billion, averaging ₦360 million per day.
- Beaches and resorts pulled in 70% of the ₦4.5 billion made from recreational services.
The contrast with 2025 is glaring — especially for shortlets. What used to be a thriving market is now facing a widespread customer revolt.
Why Nigerians Are Choosing Hotels This December
1. More predictable pricing
Hotels maintain standard festive rates, unlike shortlets where hosts change prices hourly.
2. No hidden charges
Travelers are tired of cleaning fees, security deposits, and surprise billing.
3. Better amenities
Breakfast, room service, stable electricity, and on-site security give hotels the winning edge.
4. Reliability and reduced stress
Guests no longer want to deal with unresponsive hosts, poor maintenance, or deceptive photos.
Conclusion: A New Hospitality Trend Is Emerging
Detty December 2025 is rewriting Nigeria’s holiday accommodation trends. With prices soaring and customer dissatisfaction rising, shortlet apartments are losing the festive battle, while hotels are reclaiming their place as the preferred choice for comfort, value, and reliability.
If the trend continues, 2026 may witness an even deeper shift — one that forces shortlet owners to rethink pricing, customer experience, and sustainability.
Source: Vanguard News
