"December in Nigeria - A time to do "Oblee" "Oblee" (a term for having a party fun) with friends. A time to do "Detty December." A time to go for Christmas carols and sing "Hark the herald angels sing 🎶 🎶 🎶 and many more. You see, for some of us, Christmas is a nostalgic reminder of our childhood - the excitement of waking up early on Christmas morning to find a new pair of shoes or a shiny bicycle under the tree, the thrill of playing with fireworks and bangers, and the warmth of gathering around the TV to watch a favorite Christmas movie.

As we grow older, the magic of Christmas may seem to fade, but the essence of the season remains - a time to reconnect with loved ones, to give back to our communities, and to reflect on the blessings of the past year.

Today, let's talk about Christmas and explore explore 5 splendid ways to celebrate Christmas in Nigeria. Whether you're a Lagosian, a Kanoite, or from any other part of our great nation, let's rediscover the joy, love, and warmth of Christmas in Nigeria.

5 Splendid Ways to Enjoy And Celebrate Christmas (Nigeria Edition)

1. Host or Attend a Christmas Party

Christmas parties are an integral part of Nigerian Christmas celebrations. Whether it's a family gathering, a friend's get-together, or a corporate event, Christmas parties offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with loved ones, make new friends, and create unforgettable memories.

In Nigeria, Christmas parties often feature a delicious array of traditional dishes, such as jollof rice, suya, and egusi soup. The atmosphere is usually lively, with music, dancing, and games that bring people together.

For example, you could host a Christmas party at your home, complete with decorations, a Secret Santa gift exchange, and a playlist of popular Nigerian Christmas songs. Alternatively, you could attend a Christmas party organized by your church, community, or workplace.

2. Prepare Traditional Christmas Foods:

Nigerian Christmas celebrations are incomplete without traditional Christmas foods. From the savory flavors of jollof rice and fried plantains to the sweet treats of puff-puff and coconut rice, Nigerian Christmas cuisine is a true reflection of the country's rich cultural heritage.

This Christmas, consider preparing traditional Nigerian Christmas dishes, such as:

- Jollof rice with chicken or beef

- Fried plantains with pepper sauce

- Egusi soup with fufu or eba

- Puff-puff with a side of honey or sugar

- Coconut rice with grilled chicken or fish

You could also try out new recipes or experiment with fusion dishes that blend Nigerian flavors with international cuisines.

3. Watch Classic Nigerian Christmas Movies and TV shows

Nigerian Christmas celebrations often involve watching classic Christmas movies and TV shows that evoke nostalgia and warmth. From the hilarious antics of "The Johnsons" to the heartwarming stories of "Tinsel" and others.  Nigerian Christmas TV shows offer a unique blend of entertainment, humor, and moral lessons.

This Christmas, consider watching classic Nigerian Christmas movies and TV shows, such as "30 Days in Atlanta" or "A Naija Christmas", which offer a fresh take on traditional Christmas stories.

4. Attend a Christmas Carol Service or Church Program

Christmas carol services and church programs are an integral part of Nigerian Christmas celebrations. These events offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with others, reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, and enjoy traditional Christmas carols and hymns.

In Nigeria, Christmas carol services often feature a mix of traditional and contemporary Christmas songs, as well as inspirational messages and reflections. Many churches also organize special Christmas programs, such as nativity plays, concerts, and charity events.

This Christmas, consider attending a Christmas carol service or church program in your area. You could also participate in a Christmas outreach program or volunteer at a local charity event.

5. Spend Quality Time with Family and Friends

Finally, Christmas in Nigeria is a time to spend quality time with family and friends. Whether it's a quiet evening at home, a fun outing to the beach or a game reserve, or a lively gathering with friends, Christmas is a time to connect with loved ones and create unforgettable memories.

This Christmas, consider spending quality time with family and friends by:

- Hosting a family game night or movie night

- Organizing a fun outing to the beach or a game reserve

- Attending a Christmas party or gathering with friends

- Volunteering at a local charity event or community program

- Simply spending quiet time at home with loved ones, sharing stories and memories.

So dearest reader, which one of these will you do this Christmas? Let me know in the comment section 📍. Merry Christmas 🎄 🎁