Bolt data shows rising airport trips despite growing insecurity

Nigeria’s Detty December season is in motion, and new mobility data from Bolt shows just how strongly the festivities are pulling people home. Between November 20 and December 5, Bolt recorded a 14.9% increase in airport trips in Lagos and a 17.56% rise in Abuja, signalling a sharp growth in arrivals ahead of the country’s busiest holiday window.

The numbers confirm what many already sensed: travel activity for December 2025 is heating up quickly. Every year, Nigerians from the diaspora, tourists, and in-country travellers fly into major cities for concerts, weddings, festivals, nightlife, and family reunions. Lagos and Abuja—Nigeria’s two primary international gateways—typically absorb the bulk of this movement, and this year is no different.

Interestingly, despite the viral “kakashe kakashe” trend inspired by Ogabbah’s hit song Wayyo Allah Na, which had many joking earlier in the year that they would celebrate Christmas “in Arewa,” the actual travel patterns tell another story. Travellers are still prioritising Lagos and Abuja as their entry points, perhaps influenced by the rising insecurity in northern states.

The last quarter of 2025 has been marked by intensified reports of kidnappings and bandit attacks across parts of the country, dampening expectations of heavy movement. Yet, Nigerians, especially those returning from abroad, are still travelling, choosing air transport despite its high costs as a safer alternative to road journeys. With aviation prices far above minimum wage realities, the preference underscores the level of concern over security risks.

A recent report by Condia also highlighted how safety and convenience now heavily shape mobility decisions, particularly for women in major cities. The current spike in airport ride-hailing requests aligns with that trend, showing that both Nigerians and international visitors are relying on platforms like Bolt for seamless and secure airport-to-city movement during this high-pressure season.

Speaking on the surge, Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Head of Regulatory & Policy Africa at Bolt, said:

“We’re excited to see more people coming into Nigeria to enjoy Detty December. Bolt remains committed to providing reliable, convenient, and safe mobility throughout the festive season. This season is all about connection, reuniting with loved ones, and experiencing the best of Nigerian entertainment.”

With even more travellers expected in the coming weeks, December’s mobility landscape is set for continued growth powered by returning diaspora groups, festive energy, and shifting safety considerations.