Planning an event in Nigeria is not beans! From small owambes to big corporate conferences, one thing remains true people remember how your event made them feel. Whether you're planning a wedding in Lagos, a concert in Port Harcourt, or a tech event in Abuja, there are some key ingredients that make the difference between a ‘just there’ event and a truly unforgettable one.

Here are 10 things that all great events in Naija tend to have in common:

1. Smooth Coordination

In Nigeria, anything can happen last minute traffic, power outages, or vendor delays. That’s why great events are backed by solid coordination. A good event planner has backup plans and ensures everyone knows their role from start to finish.

Pro Tip: Always have a walkie-talkie or reliable phone line with your team on event day. No time for stories!

2. Clear Purpose

People want to know why they’re attending your event. Whether it’s to celebrate, learn, network, or enjoy, your theme and messaging should be clear from the beginning.

Example: A bridal shower with a clear theme like “Yoruba Angels in White” is more engaging than just “bridal party.”

3. Guest-Centered Planning

In Naija, if your guests aren't comfortable, they won’t hide their feelings. Think about seating, ventilation (especially in outdoor venues), food variety, and accessibility.

Hot Tip: Always account for Jollof, small chops and drinks and have options for both Gen Z and your elders!

4. Good Timing

Time is sensitive in Nigeria, but most guests won’t show up at the exact start time. Still, you must start early enough to manage the flow and not bore those who came on time.

Advice: Build in “arrival time” and actual “kick-off” time in your plan.

5. Engaging Activities

People didn’t leave their homes just to sit and look. Nigerian guests love interaction! Add games, performances, panel discussions, or live music to keep things lively.

Think: Host a dance-off, have a hype MC, or do live giveaways during breaks.

6. Memorable Decor & Ambience

Whether it’s a traditional wedding or a tech summit, the look and feel of the venue matters. Lighting, colours, setup — they all help create the right vibe.

Naija Vibe Tip: Go for unique centrepieces, statement backdrops, and a photo booth if you can.

7. Effective Sound & Lighting

Nothing kills the mood like mic wahala or poor speakers. Nigerians love good music and a functional mic setup. Invest in quality sound and lighting to carry the energy of your event.

Double-check: Your generator and technician must be on standby. No stories that touch.

8. Security & Safety

Especially in big cities like Lagos or Abuja, you need proper security from traffic control to gatekeeping. Great events have security presence and emergency protocols.

Smart tip: Partner with trusted security outfits or hire bouncers if needed.

9. Authentic Vibes

Nigerians know how to vibe! Whether it’s the music, food, cultural displays, or the MC’s banter, great events lean into the local flavour. Don’t be afraid to sprinkle your event with pidgin, native language moments, and trending jokes.

Example: Use trending slang or TikTok sounds for your event intro video.

10. Proper Follow-Up

After the event, the experience shouldn’t end. Great events keep the engagement going with thank-you messages, photos, highlight reels or feedback forms.

Bonus: Tag your guests or influencers on social media and thank them publicly. Nigerians love being acknowledged!

Conclusion

As an event planner in Nigeria, understand that your job goes beyond decoration and vendors. You’re curating an experience. And in this part of the world, people will carry your event on their heads for good or for bad depending on how it made them feel.

So give them vibes, order, fun, comfort, and memories. That’s the combo for a truly great event.