Every December, Lagos transforms into Africa’s festive heartbeat — a city alive with music, energy, and the unmistakable return of the IJGBs (“I Just Got Backs”). These are Nigerians who live abroad and fly home for Detty December, bringing with them fresh accents, bold fashion, and a hunger for premium Lagos experiences.

They arrive from all corners of the world, drawn by the city’s blend of nostalgia, luxury, and beautiful chaos. From beachfront apartments to rooftop parties, some neighbourhoods become their playgrounds — buzzing with culture, connection, and non-stop excitement.

Here are five Lagos neighbourhoods IJGBs can’t resist during the holiday season:

1. Lekki Phase 1

If there’s a capital of IJGB life, it’s Lekki Phase 1. The area boasts more Airbnbs, influencers, and brunch cafés per square kilometre than anywhere else in Lagos. From food trucks and art pop-ups to pool parties and rooftop hangouts, Lekki is where the action never stops. Everyone knows someone, and every night turns into another outing. For returnees chasing comfort, convenience, and the full Detty December experience, Lekki remains unbeatable.

Victoria Island is Lagos luxury at its peak. It offers everything an IJGB could dream of — five-star hotels, private lounges, waterfront apartments, and iconic nightclubs like Quilox and DNA. The area attracts young professionals, celebrities, and entrepreneurs who want to blend business with leisure. Whether it’s a yacht party, a power brunch, or a quiet evening overlooking the skyline, V.I. delivers sophistication with an edge.

3. Ikoyi

For those who prefer elegance over chaos, Ikoyi is home. It’s peaceful, secure, and lined with leafy streets, embassies, and some of Lagos’s most prestigious estates. But beneath the calm lies subtle excitement — sleek restaurants, hidden bars, and high-end apartments perfect for IJGBs who love privacy with style. With Banana Island nearby, Ikoyi offers refined living and understated glamour.

4. Ikeja

Ikeja is the gateway to Lagos and often the first stop for many IJGBs touching down for the holidays. Close to the airport and home to major malls, hotels, and lounges, Ikeja balances convenience with energy. It’s lively yet affordable, central but less frantic than the island. For many returnees, it’s the ideal base to reconnect with family while staying plugged into the Detty December scene.

5. Yaba

Yaba is where Lagos’s creative spirit shines brightest — less glitz, more grit. It’s the hub for tech startups, streetwear brands, art shows, and rooftop music sessions. For IJGBs seeking authenticity and connection with “real Lagos,” Yaba delivers. It’s a lively mix of old-school charm and youthful innovation — the city’s cultural heartbeat in motion. (The Nation)