As Valentine’s Day approaches, conversations online have shifted from roses and chocolates to a surprising topic: naira cash bouquets. The Central Bank of Nigeria has once again reminded citizens that using banknotes for decorative purposes such as money bouquets, money cakes, and towers is considered currency abuse under Nigerian law.

The reminder, which resurfaced across social media ahead of February 14, has sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians who are used to seeing lavish cash gifts at weddings, birthdays, and romantic celebrations. While some people see money bouquets as creative expressions of love, financial authorities say the practice violates the rules guiding the proper handling of the naira.

According to the CBN, mutilating or abusing the national currency includes spraying, stapling, tearing, or transforming banknotes into decorative items. The warning is not a new Valentine ban but a reiteration of existing regulations designed to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s currency.

In recent years, social media has amplified grand romantic gestures, and money bouquets became a viral trend among couples and influencers. Florists across major cities like Lagos and Abuja even began offering customized naira bouquets alongside traditional flower arrangements.

However, the renewed warning has left many Nigerians wondering if their planned Valentine surprises could land them in trouble. Some users joked online that lovers might need to switch back to real flowers or digital transfers instead of flashy cash displays.

Financial experts say the rule exists to prevent damage to banknotes and maintain respect for the national currency. They stress that while gifting money is not illegal, the method of presentation matters. Giving cash in envelopes or through bank transfers remains acceptable, but turning the notes into decorative art crosses into prohibited territory.

The conversation has also triggered humorous reactions, with Nigerians sharing memes about partners asking for “transfer alerts instead of bouquet drama.” Others have praised the reminder, saying it encourages more thoughtful and less performative expressions of love.

Valentine’s Day in Nigeria has grown into a major cultural moment, especially among young people who embrace social media trends. Romantic gestures often go beyond traditional dinners to include elaborate surprises designed for online visibility.

This growing culture of viral romance has partly fueled the popularity of naira bouquets. Yet authorities continue to emphasize that protecting the currency takes priority over aesthetic trends. The CBN has repeatedly warned that anyone caught abusing the naira could face penalties under Nigerian law.

Despite the seriousness of the message, many Nigerians are treating the situation with humor. Some content creators have begun suggesting alternative gift ideas such as flower boxes, handwritten letters, or experiences instead of cash decorations.

For business owners who sell Valentine packages, the renewed attention has also sparked discussions about adapting their offerings. Florists say customers are already asking for creative options that stay within legal boundaries while still feeling luxurious.

As February 14 draws closer, one thing is clear: the debate around naira cash bouquets has added an unexpected twist to Valentine’s preparations this year. Whether couples choose traditional flowers, heartfelt notes, or simple transfers, the reminder highlights how even romantic trends must align with national regulations.