DecemberIssaVybe: How FirstBank Turned Yuletide into a Season of Music, Culture and Shared Memories

DecemberIssaVybe: How FirstBank Turned Yuletide into a Season of Music, Culture and Shared Memories

By Bolaji Israel

Every December, Nigeria comes alive with the unique rhythm of the festive season — the harmattan breeze, streets draped in red-and-white Christmas décor, and the flood of returnees from abroad, eager to reconnect with home. Over the past decade, FirstBank of Nigeria has become a central part of that cultural energy through its DecemberIssaVybe (DIAV) campaign, offering Nigerians more than access to premium entertainment. For the Bank, it has been about creating lasting memories, strengthening family bonds, and giving a big lift to the nation’s creative industry.

Since its debut in 2018 under the First@arts initiative, DIAV has steadily established December as the ultimate “season of vibe”, cementing FirstBank’s role as not just a financial giant but also a lifestyle brand that understands culture and community.

From the Beginning: 2018’s “Vybe” Wave

Launched at a time when “Detty December” was gaining traction, FirstBank introduced DIAV with free and discounted access to concerts and stage plays. The likes of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy headlined major festivals, while productions such as Moremi the Musical drew in new audiences, courtesy of FirstBank’s push. Families rediscovered theatre, and diaspora returnees found a ready-made entry point into Nigeria’s vibrant entertainment scene.

2019: The Year of Mega Concerts

By 2019, DIAV had become a household name, linked to front-row access at Davido’s A Good Time concerts, Wizkid’s Starboy Fest, and Kizz Daniel’s Lagos shows. Comedy also had its place, with AY Live and Mad About You ensuring laughter joined music as part of the festive offering.

2020: Adapting to the Pandemic

With live events restricted by COVID-19, DIAV pivoted to virtual concerts and livestreamed plays, helping families stay connected to culture from their homes.

2021–2022: A Triumphant Return

As restrictions eased, DIAV came back with full force. Adekunle Gold, Simi, Fireboy, and Burna Boy headlined sold-out concerts. On the theatre scene, Kakadu the Musical, The King Must Dance Naked, and Awo the Musical kept audiences enthralled. By 2022, DIAV had become the main attraction of the season, blending music, theatre, and comedy into a cultural feast.

2023: Celebrating Queens of Music

DIAV made history with A Night of Queens, an all-female showcase at Eko Convention Centre featuring Tiwa Savage, Simi, Teni, Yemi Alade, Waje, Niniola, and Dope Ceaser. Alongside, Kakadu the Musical returned to the stage, while comedy giants Ali Baba and Basketmouth kept audiences laughing into the New Year.

2024: Expanding the Vybe

Last year’s edition opened with Kenny Blaq’s Reckless Musicomedy Festival, alongside sponsorships for Motherland the Musical, Street Souk, A True Christmas Story, and family-friendly outings like Eko Hotel Pride Land Adventures and the Calabar Carnival.

Reflecting on its impact, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, said:

“FirstBank is facilitating memorable homecomings and unforgettable experiences in December with family reunions, concerts and festivals. DecemberIssaVybe isn’t just about entertainment — it’s about the cultural glue for Nigerians everywhere.”

Beyond Entertainment

Over the years, DIAV has fuelled the creative economy, supported theatre, comedy and music, and provided platforms for family reunions and diaspora connections. More than handing out tickets, it has invested in Nigeria’s cultural heartbeat.

2025: Anticipation Builds

As December approaches, speculations are already mounting. Will Davido return with another Timeless Experience? Will Asake, Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, or Ayra Starr headline Lagos? Or will DIAV unveil a surprising mix of music icons and fresh voices?

What is certain is that FirstBank once again holds the keys to the season’s hottest tickets — concerts, musicals, comedy shows, plays, and festivals — all to be unveiled on its social media platforms, where lucky fans will gain premium access.

For Nigerians at home and those coming from abroad, DecemberIssaVybe 2025 promises to deliver the memories, the magic, and the music that make the season unforgettable.