In Nigeria, sending good morning messages isn’t just a routine — it’s a cultural love language. From heartfelt prayers to funny jokes and motivational quotes, these messages serve as a daily check-in, a sign of care, and a way to remind your loved ones how much they mean to you.

“If someone stops sending you good morning messages, just know you’re no longer important to them,” says Kenny, 31. For many, these messages set the tone for the day and are a reminder that someone is thinking about them. Seun, 35, puts it, “Before my mum passed in 2019, she sent me good morning messages every day. It was her way of showing love, and I didn’t know how much the messages meant until they stopped coming.”

In this article, you’ll find 200 real good morning messages — from romantic and religious to funny and professional — all sourced from real Nigerians and categorised for easy selection. Whether you’re texting a partner, parent, or colleague, you’ll find the perfect message to start their day right.

How to Craft the Perfect Good Morning Message

A well-crafted good morning message isn’t just about saying “Good morning.” It’s about making the person on the receiving end feel seen, appreciated, and motivated for the day ahead.

Don’t know where to start? Here’s a step-by-step guide to personalising your morning messages, complete with insights from real Nigerians.

Step 1: Start with a warm greeting

Begin with a genuine and affectionate greeting. Depending on your relationship with the person, this could be as simple as “Good morning, love” or “Rise and shine, my guy!”

“A simple ‘Good morning, my dear’ from my mum makes my entire day,” says Taiwo, 29. “It reminds me that someone is thinking about me before the day even starts.”

Example:

“Good morning, sunshine! I hope you woke up feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the day.”

Step 2: Add a personal touch

Show that you truly care by mentioning something specific about the person — maybe their plans for the day, their mood from the previous night, or an inside joke between you two. This makes the message feel thoughtful and intentional.

“When I wake up to a, ‘Good morning! Hope your presentation goes well today,’ from someone I care about, I feel instantly motivated and the anxiety goes out the window,” says Kenny.

Example:

“Good morning, superstar! Wishing you all the confidence and clarity you need for that big meeting today. You’ve got this!”

Step 3: Include encouragement or a blessing

For many Nigerians, prayers and words of encouragement are essential in daily conversations. Whether it’s a heartfelt blessing or a motivational push, including something uplifting can set the right tone for the day.

“My mum sends a morning prayer every day,” says Yinka, 30. “Even if I don’t reply, just reading it makes me feel covered.”

Example:

“May today bring you unexpected joy and favour. Everything you lay your hands on will prosper. Go and win!”

Step 4: Add humour if appropriate (optional)

Not every message has to be deep — sometimes, a funny or playful message can be the perfect way to start the day. If you share an inside joke with the recipient, this is the place to use it.

“My cousin sends the funniest morning messages on my big days and it’s something I’ve come to appreciate,” says Taiwo.

Example:

“Good morning! Hope you slept well — because today, adulting continues. No escape!”

Step 5: Close with warmth

Always end your good morning message with something that makes the recipient feel cared for — whether it’s a reminder to eat breakfast, a promise to check in later, or a simple “I love you.”

Example:

“Have a beautiful day ahead. Don’t forget to eat before you step out, and remember,  I’m always cheering for you!”

A well-crafted good morning message should look like:

“Good morning, my favourite human! I hope you woke up feeling rested. Wishing you all the energy you need for today, especially for that 10 a.m. meeting (I know how you feel about those). May your day be smooth, productive, and filled with wins. And please, don’t forget to eat something before you run out the door! Talk later.”

200 Good Morning Messages From Real Nigerians

Since we know Nigerians don’t joke with good morning messages, we asked real Nigerians how they craft theirs. From sweet to spiritual, romantic to downright hilarious, there’s a perfect one for that special person waiting to hear from you.

Romantic Good Morning Messages for Your Love

Best for: Boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, or anyone you love deeply.

Sending a romantic good morning message isn’t just about saying “Good morning.” It’s about making your partner feel loved, cherished, and connected to you before their day even starts. For many Nigerians, morning texts are an essential part of relationships.

“If my boyfriend doesn’t text me ‘Good morning, my love,’ I automatically assume something is wrong,” says Amaka, 27. “It’s the little things that make me feel special.”

For Tobi, 32, good morning messages help keep long-distance love alive. “I wake up looking forward to my wife’s messages. It reassures me that I’m on her mind, no matter the distance.”

Here are some romantic good morning messages from real Nigerians to help you set the perfect tone for your partner’s day.

Short & sweet romantic good morning messages to your love

These messages are perfect for quick check-ins while keeping things affectionate.

• Good morning, my love. Waking up knowing you’re mine makes every day perfect.

• Morning, Adufe mi. I didn’t hit the snooze button today because it would’ve meant another moment without speaking to you. Did you sleep well?

• You have no idea how much my heart races when I see you. Good morning, beautiful.

• Impatiently waiting for you to wake up so that I can officially start my day off right. Good morning, my love! Also, there’s gist.

• I can feel you around me even when you are not physically present. That’s how much of a hold you have on me. Good morning, darling.

• Since I can’t wrap my arms around you, I keep you in my thoughts and prayers every morning and at bedtime. Good morning, my ego oyibo.

• Hey there, handsome! Woke up thinking about you this morning, and I already feel like I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I hope you have a day as extraordinary as you are.

• Just thinking of you this morning makes me smile. Good morning, baby. Please text me as soon as you get this.

• The biggest smile on my face has always been because of you. Good morning, my love.

• Thank you for being the best partner any woman could dream of. I wish you a day filled with joy and lots of love. I love you.

• This is to remind you that no one will love you like me. Good morning to you, my king.

• Good morning, my superwoman. I hope you’re rested and ready for a beautiful day. Your presence fills my life with joy and love every single day.

• Waking up to a world where you exist? That’s already a win. Have a beautiful day, my heartbeat.

• Good morning, baby. If today tries any nonsense, just remember, ‘Who dey breet?’ You’ve got this!

• Morning, my king. I pray today brings you success and joy. Thank you for being the pillar of our family.

• Anytime I’m sad, I only have to spend a moment with you. Seriously, how do you do it, babe? Can’t wait to spend the rest of today with you. Bonjour, my love!

• My mornings are incomplete if I do not send you hugs and positive vibes. Have a sweet morning, dear.

• Hey baby. Just wanted to remind you this bright and early morning that you’re always my first and last thought. Step out today and shine like the superstar that you are!

• It’s a blessing to wake up on the right side of the bed each day, and it is largely because I have you in my life. I love you, sweetheart. Have a nice day ahead.

• The thought of you does the magic because whenever I think of you, my day is great. Thank you for being part of my life this morning. I appreciate your love, and I am here for you all day.

• I’ve accepted that there is nobody else for me but you. I am so in love with you, and I hope you know this. I want to be with you forever and tell you good morning when I wake up every day.

• The best thing about this morning is that you’re mine. The worst thing about this morning is that I’m far from you.

• You make every morning better just by being in my life. Thank you for making me the luckiest guy in the world.

• Waking up to your smile, whether you’re with me or not, is the best way to start my day. Good morning, boo. Did you dream of me?

• Hey baby. Did you sleep well? Because I did dreaming about you! You should know that every time I think about you, there’s this weird fluttering in my stomach. I don’t know if that’s what they refer to as butterflies, but I honestly don’t mind it.

• Morning baby. I just want to tell you how much I love you. You’re the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love you so frickin much boo. I appreciate you. I care for you. I adore you. Just letting you know that I’ll love you forever.

• Top of the morning, big man. Thanks for being more than a lover. Thanks for being a sweetheart. Thanks for being a brother. I know I am annoying and can be a pain, but you’ve loved me still. Thanks for being a great part of my journey. I love you!!

• Rise and shine, my sweetheart. Sending you all my love this morning!

• Top of the morning to the absolute love of my life. You mean everything to me. I hope you remember that, even in moments where I’m not exactly on my best behaviour.

• The morning sun is more radiant every morning whenever you smile at me. Good morning, my pretty lady.

• You bring flavour to my life, and I just want you to know that no matter how today goes, you’re my number one, forever and always.

• Wake up, sleepyhead! The world is waiting for your gorgeous face.

• I’m not a morning person, but waking up to text you gives me tremendous joy.

• Morning, love! Hope you dreamt of me because I definitely dreamt of you.

• Love you, always. And if anything, I hope you read this with a smile formed on your face. Morning lover!

• I waited all my life to love you, and now that I have, I will never let a day pass without letting you know how much I love you. Have a great day, baby.

• Hey you! My mind wandered to last night when you said you missed me. I replayed the moment, and my face formed a smile — briskly but still enough to imagine doing life with you forever.

• Every sunrise reminds me of the warmth of your love. Good morning, my angel. I hope today showers you with as much happiness as you bring into my life.

• Hey baby, I woke up this beautiful morning missing you very deeply. I don’t know how, but we have to find a way to be together soon. Top of the morning to you.

• Good morning my babe, I know you’re still feeling bad but today is a new day and the possibilities are endless! I hope you have a great day and nothing stresses you out <3

• My heart! This is your early morning reminder that you are loved and one mistake doesn’t mean the end of the world, we can always start again. Enjoy your day, beb!

• Eight billion faces and yours is my favourite to wake up to every morning. Have a beautiful day ahead, baby.

• Is it a bright and glorious morning? Or does it seem that way to me because I will meet you today after months apart?

• I now know how it feels to be in love because every morning I open my eyes; you are the first thing that comes to my mind. Have a good day, Ayanfe mi.

• Every morning reminds me of your tender love, and I’m working hard for a beautiful future. It’s you and me for life because I can’t find anyone in the world who has the sweetest love. Good morning.

• Waking up every morning with you on my mind is the best part of my day. I hope today brings you happiness, success, and heartfelt smiles. Good morning, my love.

• Good morning, babe. I hope you slept well? I was just thinking about that soup you made last week – it was chef’s kiss!  What are you up to today? Text me as soon as you see this.

• Good morning, my love. I hope you slept like a baby.  I’m just here dreaming about our trip to Ibadan last month.  Maybe we should plan another one soon?  Have a fantastic day and let me know if you’re still coming over.

• Hey you. I called your phone a couple of times but it wasn’t going through. Just wanted to check on you. I hope you had a restful night and are ready for today? Love you.

• Good morning babe. I know I promised to stop by this morning but I woke up super late. I’ll come visit on my way back home. Don’t miss me too much and have a beautiful day!

• The world is ours for the taking, dear. I know we can conquer it together. Thanks for being a total sweetheart, and have the best morning!

• Good morning my King; your Queen adores you so much.

Long & deep romantic good morning messages for your love

For when you want to express your love in an emotional and heartfelt way.

• Morning, my beautiful, beautiful boy — the one who’s been specially made for me. I hope you had a restful night. I loved every bit of our conversation last night, and I hope we can do that more often. It makes your absence a little more bearable. Do have the most amazing day at work. Love, your baby girl.

• If loving you is all I’ve got to do for the rest of my life, I’ll need several more to show you how much you mean to me. I wake up every morning filled with the reality that I am somebody’s woman. Don’t leave me o.

• Good morning, babe. I know you’re probably still asleep, but I just wanted you to know that I’m up, grateful and thinking about you already. I hope your day goes really well and things align in your favour. P.S: I prayed for you this morning. Did you pray for me?

• Good morning, my love. Every new day is a reminder of how lucky I am to have you in my life. Your love gives me strength, and your smile brightens my world. No matter what today brings, know that I’m always here, loving you more with each passing moment.

• Morning, baby. I just want to remind you that you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. No matter how busy life gets, you will always be my priority. May today bring you peace, joy, and everything your heart desires.

• The sun is shining, but nothing is brighter than the love I have for you. Good morning, my heart. I pray today is kind to you, and that every step you take leads you closer to your dreams. I love you endlessly.

• Hey gorgeous. I woke up this morning and smiled like a proud finished man. Then, I took another glance at you. God really dey create, and I’m definitely with his best work.  Love it. And wouldn’t have it any other way.

• I woke up this morning wishing to hold you tight in my arms — so tight that I suffocate you with my love and warmth. I can imagine you giggling in my arms while I pull you closer to my heart. Can we meet today? Because I want you in my arms, I won’t feel at peace until my wish is fulfilled. Good morning, my sunshine.

• My love, how are you? Did you enjoy sleeping in a little longer today? I sure did! I love waking up to messages from you every morning. You are so sweet and thoughtful. Your messages make my morning brighter. I love seeing your name on my phone. It makes me want to call you immediately because I can’t wait to hear your voice.

• Hey baby. I spent several minutes of my morning looking for the sweetest message that’ll make you blush hard as you read on your phone. But eventually, only three words came to mind: I miss you. I hope you have a beautiful morning and an even prettier day.

• Hey babe, this might be another ordinary morning to you, but to me, it marks yet another beautiful day of getting to do this thing called life with you. I want to genuinely thank and appreciate you for riding this rocky boat with me. I got you for life, my baby boy.

• Morning baby, you know what makes today extra special? It’s a day closer to when I will hold you in my hands again and tell you how much I love you. I wish you an amazing day ahead, and please make sure you leave a message. Talk later.

• Good morning, my love. If love was a song, you’d be the only tune stuck in my head. Like Fireboy said, ‘I need you in my life,’ and every morning reminds me that I made the best decision loving you. May today be kind to you, my heartbeat.

• The memories of you and I together are worth repeating and I hope the magic of our love will stay frozen in time because they’re so special, I’m willing to wait. I’m using this time to build my life, career, and relationship with God. Morning babe.

• Hey baby. You have consistently supported me financially, emotionally and mentally. You are an amazing person and I know I do not get to tell you that always. Can’t wait to repay all the kindness. Thank you for always being my support system. Do have a beautiful and blessed morning ahead!

• When I say ‘I love you,’ I want you to know that I mean every bit of it. My love for you is like an ocean that will never run dry, and you can take my word for it because I won’t stop loving you for anything in the world. Good morning baby.

• Hey lover! Have I ever mentioned that the thought of you brightens my morning like the first rays of sunlight? If I haven’t, now you know. You make everything in my life more exciting and meaningful. Remember that time we went to the market and everyone just assumed we were husband and wife? Can’t wait for when that becomes our reality. If you’re wondering why I’m waxing lyrical this morning, it’s because that’s what sweet boys do.

• Good morning, my Queen. Last night, I dreamt of us strolling hand-in-hand along the beach, the waves whispering secrets of our love.  You’re more than just my love; you’re my confidante, my best friend, the woman who makes me want to be a better man. I cherish every moment with you, and I pray your day is as beautiful and extraordinary as you are.

Playful & flirty good morning messages for your love

For when you want to add some fun and teasing to your morning check-in.

• I spent last night going through all your photos. When I see you this November, I’ll eat you all up. Tell your office people that they’ll only have one hour of you every day till I leave. You make this life worth living. I love you, Gem. So much. Today, always.

• Cuddling with you would be perfect right now. Morning babe.

• Good morning to the most handsome man in the universe. I love you!

• I think it’s time to move in together. Texting you good morning isn’t going to work forever; I want to be waking up right next to you.

• Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up. *Marvin Gaye voice* We have some sexual healing to do when I see you!

• Wow! The hottest person in the world is awake. Good morning, darling.

• Big head. So if I didn’t text you good morning that’s how you would have proceeded without me? Anyway, let me know what you want to have for breakfast.

• Good morning, fine girl. I hope you dreamt of me, because if not, you need to go back to sleep and fix that.

• All I crave this morning is the feel of your gentle skin against mine, a kiss on my forehead and lips, and a warm hug. I love you.

• The best part of my morning is waking up next to you and it kinda sucks you’re not here with me right now. But hey, looking forward to doing all the naughty things when we’re together again. Have a beautiful day ahead! Love you so much.

• Good morning, dear. There are two things I’d like to eat this morning: Breakfast and you!

• If I wasn’t the first thing on your mind this morning, please go back to sleep, dear.

• Good morning, my favourite distraction. Now go be productive… or just think about me all day. That works too!

• Rise and shine, my love! If I could, I’d bring you breakfast in bed every morning. But since I can’t, I’ll settle for this text. Hope you miss me!

• Morning, babe. I had a dream that you finally stopped pressing snooze. But we both know that’ll never happen.

• I woke up this morning, and the first thing I thought of was you. The second was food. But you’re more important, I promise.

• Rise and shine, love! You owe me a kiss for every minute we’re not together this morning.

• I’m jealous of the sun kissing you awake because I want to be there to do it myself. Good morning, princess!

• Did you feel a little warm in the morning? I sent you a couple of hugs in my thoughts! Good morning, baby.

• Morning, gorgeous. I was dreaming of you all night, and let’s just say… waking up was a disappointment without you next to me.

• Good morning, my honey pie. You are the Wizkid to my Tems, the Davido to my Assurance, always my first and last thought. Step out today and shine like the superstar that you are.

• I have a thousand crazy things I would do to you if I woke up beside you. I love you, dear.

• I woke up this morning in the mood to destroy your lips. Good morning, baby.

• I had a steamy and hot dream about you. I can’t wait to be in your arms. Good morning, dear.

• Good morning, dearest. I just got dressed and am on my way out. I hope you will be the one to take these clothes off later today.

Struggling to find out what kind of romantic partner you’ll be?

Our romantic personality quiz has all the answers.

Funny good morning messages for friends & family

Best for: Friends, siblings, and anyone who loves a good laugh in the morning.

Whether it’s banter with friends, teasing among siblings, or lighthearted jabs from parents, starting the day with laughter makes everything feel a little easier.

“If my brother doesn’t insult me in the morning, I know something is wrong,” says Wale, 26. “That’s just how we show love. I could get a text from him saying ‘Goat, your own morning never reach?’”

Here are some funny good morning messages to bring laughter to your loved ones as they start their day.

Lighthearted good morning messages

Want to make your loved ones smile sheepishly at their phones? These funny good morning messages should be on your radar.

• Good morning! Hope you’re ready to pretend to be productive again today.

• Morning you. I just want you to know that I love you now, tomorrow, and forever and will always be my friend. Looking forward to seeing you one day and I will keep stressing you online.

• Hey you! Did I ever tell you life has really been a good one for me thanks to my heart who has chosen you? You’ve been a great friend of mine honestly and I will forever be indebted to you. I just want you to know that I love you now, tomorrow, and forever. And I will keep asking you to cook for me. Good morning!

• Good morning, my star! Nobody can stain your white, you’ve got this exam in the bag, good luck today!

• Kaaro babe, I had to leave before you woke up but thanks so much for letting me stay over. Shokoyokoto, that pepper soup last night banged like mad, let’s do it again next week!

• Good morning, you! I can’t believe you’re already going back. I absolutely loved this holiday because we got to spend so much time together. Don’t be a stranger now, come home soon. I miss u!

• Rise and shine! Or just rise… no pressure on the shining part.

• Morning! Don’t let today stress you, stress is for people who have energy.

• Wake up! The sun is out, the birds are singing, and you… are still in bed. Do better.

• Hey you! You’re loved. You’re wonderful. You’re special. You’re unique. Don’t ever look down on yourself, okay? Happy birthday in advance and have the best morning! Love you, always!

• Kaaro my love, hope you had a good night. I have one mad gist that I swear will make your day. Call me when you wake up.

• Owuro lojo eni ma rire, eni ma rire o, a se iba fun owuro. You already know this is my favourite Beautiful Nubia song, and if I’m sending it to you it only means one thing: wake up and jumpstart. Lmao!

• Guy, you still dey sleep? Your own morning never reach abi? Anyway check your phone and respond to my messages. I dey show your side today.

“My best friend wasn’t just a friend; he was family. When he passed away three years ago, I took it upon myself to look out for his loved ones.”

These Nigerians tell us what it feels like to sacrifice for loved ones they deeply care about.

Teasing & playful good morning messages

For friends and family who enjoy some lighthearted roasting.

• Good morning! Time to leave your bed and face the reality of being broke again.

• Rise and shine! Oh wait, you’re not a star, just a struggling adult like the rest of us.

• Morning! Hope you’re ready to fight your alarm clock again tomorrow.

• Wakey wakey! I’d say ‘don’t be lazy,’ but we both know that’s asking for too much.

• Good morning you! The world is waiting for your greatness… or at least your attempts at it. Go out and shine!

• Wake up, wake up! The sun is already shining, and your enemies are already at work. Don’t let them win!

• You slept for free, woke up for free, and you still don’t want to say ‘thank you, Jesus’? You no get conscience?

• Yo, wake up! Good morning, but more importantly, have you seen my charger?

• Don’t waste your morning sleeping. Wake up, Mr Man!

• Wake up and be great! Or at least wake up and eat, then we can figure out the ‘great’ part later.

• Mummy, good morning o! Please don’t forget that today is the day I ask for that ‘small thing’ from you. Have a blessed day!

• Good morning, my dear. It is your choice to either keep enjoying your dreams or wake up and make them come true.

• Like a true friend I will always be there to wake you up with a message saying absolute rubbish. LMAO!

Motivational & Deep Good Morning Messages

Best for: Friends, colleagues, or anyone who needs encouragement to start their day right.

Want to uplift, inspire, and remind loved ones that they’re not alone in their struggles? Morning messages are a good starting point. Whether it’s a prayer from a parent, an aspire to perspire text from a friend, or a daily affirmation, these messages serve to boost morale for the day ahead.

“Every morning, my dad sends me a message reminding me to keep pushing forward,” says Dimeji, 33. “Even when things feel tough, those words keep me going.”

Here are some deep and motivational good morning messages to brighten someone’s morning and give them the boost they need.

Uplifting good morning messages

Perfect for starting the day with positivity and encouragement.

• Good morning! Remember, no matter how tough yesterday was, today is a fresh start. You’ve got this!

• Good Morning! May this beautiful Friday morning bring you peace, joy, and countless blessings. May your heart be light, your mind be clear, and your soul be filled with gratitude. As the weekend approaches, may today be filled with happiness, success, and love.

• Rise and shine! A new day means new opportunities. Go out there and take what’s yours.

• Good morning. A new day brings new opportunities, grab them with both hands. Stay focused, stay grateful, and let your energy light up the world today. Have a fantastic day ahead .

• Good morning! The only thing standing between you and success is consistency. Keep going!

• Every sunrise is a reminder that you have another chance to chase your dreams. Make today count!

• Good morning! Stay focused, stay grateful, and watch how the day unfolds in your favour.

• Good morning! No matter how slow today feels, just remember that even ‘small small’ still reaches the destination.

• You don’t have to figure out everything today. Just take one step, and let tomorrow worry about itself. Good morning!

• A journey of a thousand miles starts with one step and maybe a cup of tea. Take that step today!

• Hustle, but don’t forget to live. Work hard, but don’t forget to breathe. Life is a balance. Good morning!

• No matter what comes your way today, keep your head up. The same sun that rises will always set. Nothing lasts forever.

• If no one told you today: You are doing great. You are worthy. You are enough. Go and shine!

• Hey you. Remember, each morning brings fresh mercies and new chances to leave footprints of impact. Go out there with your shoulders held up high and win!

• As you embrace this new day, may your heart overflow with heaven’s sunshine, the starlight of kindness light your path, and your journey be blessed with profound growth and wisdom. Good morning.

• May each sunrise paint your days with the colours of success, and every sunset wrap you in blessed tranquillity. Welcome to another beautiful day.

• Morning babes, I’m sorry you’re feeling down today. Don’t forget I’m here for you. Sending you all my love and support. Let me know if you need anything.

• Shit happens, but I want you to always remember you’re loved and cherished. You bring so much joy into my life, and I’ll do anything to make you feel better. Have a blessed morning.

• Good morning uncle. Please, one step at a time, one day at a time. Everything will work out in due time. Keep holding on and never stop believing.

Faith-based good morning messages

For those who find strength in prayers and blessings.

• Alhamdulillah for another beautiful morning. May Allah’s light guide your steps today and always.

• Good morning! May today bring you closer to Allah and fill your heart with peace and contentment.

• Good morning! May today bring you divine favour, peace, and success in all you do.

• Bismillah! As you step out today, may Allah bless your efforts and reward your patience with success.

• Hello my beautiful and adorable daughter. My God will clear all impediments on your way to greatness in Jesus Name. He will silence all the lions roaring to devour you in Jesus Name. You will regain all lost blessings and glory in Jesus Name.

• A beautiful morning to you! May Allah guide you towards good fortune and success, filling your days with determination and positivity. With perseverance and hope, this new week will be filled with remarkable achievements and endless possibilities.

• As you step into today, may God order your steps and bless the work of your hands.

• Rise and shine! May your heart be filled with joy, and your path be guided by grace.

• Good morning! May the Lord protect you from harm, open doors for you, and give you strength to overcome challenges.

• This is the day the Lord has made; rejoice and be glad in it. Wishing you a blessed morning!

• My darling daughter, I pray for you this morning that God Almighty will lead you to the end of this year and beyond in good health, divine protection and abundant blessings from above in Jesus Name. Amen.

• May all we have been agitating for be our portions in Jesus mighty name, according to his words in Psalm 91 verse 5 to 9. Good morning and be blessed both in Nigeria and throughout the universe shallom! shallom! shallom!!

• Anything that will be a tragedy, mentally depression, mourning for some minutes, stroke, untimely sickness and death,  end of the  year house burnt, may God Almighty avert, abolish, destroy and nullify such before us at the  end of this month and year in Jesus mighty name amen. Good morning, son.

• A beautiful morning to you son. May your efforts today not be wasted by the power in the blood of Jesus. God will answer His name in your life in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

• Today, the Lord will give you peace and reward you with your heart’s desire. The goodness of God will overshadow you and your families and all the work of your hands shall be blessed. He will cause you to flourish, rejoice and you shall not fail. Good morning and have a victory in all your ways today and forever more.

• It will not be hidden, it will not be limited to you and your family, now Almighty God will give you a new breakthrough/victory that will be visible to the world in the name of Jesus. Good morning to you.

• May God remove everything that will cause you sorrow and sadness and always multiply everything that will bring peace, happiness, joy and good health and wealth to you and your entire family today, tomorrow and forever Amin. Good morning.

• The Lord will bestow upon you miracles that will bring forth unprecedented celebration in your family this week. Amen. Good morning to you!

• The Prophet (SAW) said, ‘Dua is the weapon of the believer.’ May your duas be answered today and always. Ameen. Salam alaikun

• Every new day is a chance to earn more barakah. May Allah bless your deeds and grant you ease in all you do.

• May your steps today be guided by Allah’s wisdom, and your heart be filled with His tranquility.

• Good morning brother. On this blessed day. I pray Allah helps us deal with difficult people. Keep us humble, no  matter what people say about us. Help us to be guided by what You’ve taught us and not by our emotions. Steer us to always make the right choice in every situation. I wish you a beautiful jummah.

Good Morning Messages for Family

Best for: Parents, siblings, and extended family members to show love and appreciation.

One thing about Nigerians? They don’t joke with their loved ones. Family is everything. Whether near or far, starting the day with a thoughtful message is a way to remind your loved ones that they are cherished, remembered and you wish the best for them.

“Every morning, my mum sends a prayer to our family group chat,” says Kenny “It’s a tradition that keeps us connected, no matter where we are.”

Here are heartfelt good morning messages to strengthen family bonds and brighten their day.

Affectionate Good Morning Messages for Family

For those moments when you just want to express love and appreciation to your parents, siblings, or extended family.

• Good morning, Mum! Wishing you a beautiful day filled with joy and laughter. Thank you for everything you do!

• Good morning big bro. I just want to let you know I love you now, tomorrow, and forever and I’ll keep billing you.

• Good morning, my Oga at the top. May today bring you favour and contracts that will make people appreciate the workings of God in your life.

• It’s a brand-new day, another opportunity to appreciate the best family in the world. Love you always.

• Good morning, my beloved family. As the Igbo saying goes, ‘A tree cannot make a forest.’ I am grateful for the love and strength we share. May today bring us all peace and happiness.

• Good morning family! ‘The sun does not forget a village just because it is small.’ May God’s blessings locate you today, no matter where you are.

• Good morning, my dear ones. Waking up knowing I have a family like you is already a blessing. I pray this new week is filled with joy and success for all of us.

• No matter where life takes us, family will always be home. I can’t wait to be with you guys again. But in the meantime, I hope you are keeping safe and being the best versions of yourselves? I pray today brings you happiness and fulfillment. Have a lovely morning.

• Rise and shine, Dad! May today bring you peace, happiness, and everything your heart desires.

• Hello bro. Please, don’t let stress affect your life. I hope you’ll manage to have a wonderful day ahead.

• Good morning, my dear sister! I hope today is kind to you, and you achieve all your goals.

• Morning, big bro! Sending you positive vibes and strength for the day ahead.

• Good morning bro! Just wanted to say I love you so much. You’re the best big brother a girl can ask for! Mwah!!!!!!!!!!!

• A bright and beautiful morning to the best family in the world! May we all have a day full of blessings and happiness.

• Where do I begin from? I just want you to know you mean so much to me, thank you for always coming through, thank you for being amazing, thank you for being thoughtful, thank you for always being there and most importantly for always supporting me! I want you to always remember you are special and loved! You deserve all the happiness, love and joy!  You really don’t know how much of a blessing you truly are to me! Thank you my dearest brother. Top of the morning to you!

• Good morning sis. I woke up remembering those years of struggle and I’m just grateful to God for how far he has brought us! May you never miss it in any aspect of life, may you never know a better yesterday! May God continually shine His face upon you!

Supportive Good Morning Messages for Family

For family members who may be facing challenges or need extra encouragement.

• Good morning, Mum. No matter what today brings, know that you are loved and appreciated beyond words.

• Another morning, another chance to chase your dreams! May today be smooth and productive.

• Good morning my chief. Listen, nothing do you. This too shall pass, and I’ll be there with you till we get to the other side.

• If there is a problem, there is a solution as well. Don’t give up. Good morning!

• May the blessings of this new day bring you joy, peace, and prosperity. May your sacrifices be accepted and your prayers answered.

• Good morning, sister mi. I know things are tough, but please remember that you are stronger than any challenge. You’ve overcome so much before, and I believe this is just a phase that will pass. Please keep your head up and stay blessed.

• Hey man. How are you doing? I believe you’re doing great. Just want to let you know that you’re a great person, don’t let anyone hurt you, you’re really a wonderful person who deserves wonderful things. Rooting for your success,Love you.

• Good morning sis. I know things aren’t the best right now, but I promise they’ll get better. You’re strong and resilient, and I’m always here to help you through it all.

• Hey man. I know life may not be easy right now, but you are tougher than anything it throws at you. Keep pushing, I’ve got your back always. I prayed for you overnight and I’m positive you’ll start this brand new day with good news. Please keep in touch.

• Stay strong, Dad! Tough times don’t last, but strong people do. Wishing you a day full of hope and success.

• The sun always rises, no matter how dark the night was. May today bring you peace and clarity. I love you deeply and you should know we are all here for you.

• Morning, sis! No matter how hard things get, remember you have a family that loves and believes in you.

• Good morning, my dear. Just a reminder that storms don’t last forever. Keep going, and know that brighter days are ahead. Olorun a lana fun e. (May God make a way for you)

• Bawo ni, Morenike mi? I hope you woke on the bright side of the bed. Remember, life is full of ups and downs, but I know you will rise above every difficulty. I pray today brings you ease and joy.

• To my amazing brother, keep pushing forward! Today is another chance to chase your dreams.

• A new day means new opportunities. Keep your head up, stay positive, and trust that everything will work out. Love you, fam!

• Rise and shine my dear one. ‘No matter how many times the cock crows, morning will still come.’ Your struggles do not define you; better days are ahead.

• Waking up every day knowing I have you as my parent is a gift. I hope you had a restful night? Wishing you best of luck in your endeavours today.

• Good morning, mummy! I just wanted you to know that I appreciate everything you do for us. Even though I don’t get to say it all the time, your sacrifice isn’t lost to us. I pray you live long to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

• Morning, my dear. ‘The sky is wide enough for every bird to fly.’ Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s; your success is on the way. I want you to focus on positive thoughts only as you go about your day. What has happened is in the past, but we can change the present and future.

• Each day, you hold the power to choose joy, embrace life’s twists, grow through its lessons, and let hope light your path. I want you to go about your day with this knowledge. You’re more resilient than you imagine, wiser than you know, and more cherished than words can say. Have a blessed morning.

• Good morning brother. I want you to know that Almighty Allah knows the trials and tribulations you are facing right now. He knows your pain & discomfort. He knows your grief and sorrow. He has the power to heal you on this blessed day, grant hope in your heart and make you whole again. Please, don’t lose hope.

Sending a good morning message to a loved one is a small but meaningful way to show love, appreciation, and support. Whether it’s a simple check-in, an affectionate note, or a few words of encouragement, these messages help keep connections strong.

So, why not brighten someone’s morning today? A simple message can make all the difference.

5 Questions about Good Morning Messages Nigerians Have

1. How long should a good morning message be?

There’s no fixed length, what matters is the intention behind the message. Some people prefer a short and sweet text (“Good morning, have a great day!”), while others appreciate a thoughtful, personalised note.

You should also consider who you’re texting and their personality. Busy people? Keep it short and positive. Romantic partners? Add some warmth, inside jokes, or a sweet compliment. Friends? A mix of humour and light motivation works well. Family? They appreciate heartfelt and faith-based messages.

2. What should you avoid when sending a good morning message?

Sending the same generic text every day isn’t the best option. A repeated “Good morning. Have a nice day” message can get tiring and filtered out as noise by the recipient. Instead, be creative. Use interesting relationship quotes, poems or even trending social media slang.

Now, while you’re free to wax lyrical, you shouldn’t over complicate it. Instead of “May the radiance of the sun bless your internal fortitude with undying perseverance,” consider “May the sun’s warmth give you strength and perseverance.” Always push for clear, easy-to-understand language.

Also, you should avoid the following morning text etiquette faux pas:

• Waking someone up unnecessarily. If they’re still sleeping, why are you texting them at 5 a.m.? Yes, your intention is genuine, but you should push for the best timing.

• Double-texting when they haven’t replied. Remember, morning texts are not attendance registers. Give your recipients time to respond.

• Sending dry one-word texts. If all you say is “Morning,” abeg, just leave it.

• Forgetting the time difference when texting someone abroad. Yes, it’s an honest mistake , but it can also mean you weren’t intentional with your message. (“Good morning” at 3 AM their time? Blocked.)

3. Who should you send a good morning message to?

Anyone you care about! It’s not just for romantic partners — friends, siblings, parents, mentors, and even colleagues appreciate them. In Nigeria, family members, friends, and even neighbours send morning messages, especially those full of prayers and motivation. Some workplaces even have morning check-ins. If you only send to a partner, you’re missing out.

You’ll be shocked how much your grandparents, parents, uncles, aunties, love good morning messages, especially if you add prayers. You can also create a good impression with some mentors or bosses with a respectful “Good morning, have a productive day” message.

4. What makes a good morning message special?

It’s important to note that while the words are a good place to start, the intention behind sending a message is just as important. For that extra care and attention that’ll make your message stand out to recipients, you should consider the crafting your message as such: 

• Prayers: for parents & elders

• Humor: for friends & siblings

• Encouragement: for colleagues & loved ones going through tough times

• Personalisation: mention something specific, not just a generic greeting

5. Should you send good morning messages every day?

It depends. Some people appreciate daily check-ins, while others prefer it occasionally so it doesn’t lose meaning. If you’re sending it every day, switch it up with new jokes, prayers, or affirmations to keep it fresh.

And if you’ve been texting someone every single morning without fail, and they’re not reciprocating, maybe chill small. Overdoing it can feel forced or intrusive, especially in new friendships or relationships.

TAKE THE QUIZ: What Type of Morning Person Are You?

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and while I, a proud single pringle, have no reason to stress over gifts or dinner reservations, I can’t help but wonder how some of my favourite Nollywood couples are celebrating.

From whirlwind romances to chaotic love triangles, Nollywood has given us couples that make us believe in love—and others that make us grateful for our single lives. So, in the spirit of love (and premium gist), here’s my wild guess at how these iconic duos are spending their Valentine’s Day.

Adina and Adil from Big Love

Adil (Timini Egbuson) and Adina (Bimbo Ademoye) have been running on vibes and caffeine, juggling work, parenting little Jayden, and trying not to fall asleep mid-conversation. So, for Valentine’s Day, they’re keeping it simple—just a quiet weekend staycation at a resort in Ibadan, far from deadlines and diaper duty.

Adil, ever the observant lover boy, surprises Adina with a bracelet she once admired but pretended she didn’t want (rookie mistake—he clocked it). Meanwhile, Adina, never one to be outdone, hands him a little box. He’s expecting cufflinks or maybe a love note. Instead, he finds a pregnancy test. Positive.

Happy Valentine’s, Baba Ibeji.

Big Love is streaming on Prime Video.

Aiyetide and Obinna from This Lady Called Life

Obinna (Efa Iwara) knows the way to Aiyetide’s (Bisola Aiyeola) heart is through food, so for Valentine’s, he books a private tasting with her favourite chef, where they spend the evening indulging in an array of dishes that make her do a little happy dance after every bite.

The gifts? Thoughtful as ever. He surprises her with that high-end pan she’s been side-eyeing for months, and she hands him the fancy equipment he’s been raving about like a kid in a gadget store.

Afterward, they sway under the moonlight, whispering sweet nothings—until the fatigue of adulting kicks in. They retreat inside for a cozy movie night, but somewhere between pressing “play” and finding the perfect cuddle position, Netflix becomes background noise, and sleep wins the night.

This Lady Called Life is streaming on MUBI.

Amaka and Afamefuna from Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story

Afamefuna (Stan Nze) starts the day strong—breakfast in bed and a living room drowning in Amaka’s (Atlanta Bridget Johnson) favourite flowers. Romantic guy.

For dinner, he takes her out, thinking he’s planned the perfect date. But problem—she doesn’t like nkwobi. Now he’s watching her pick at the food while eyeing his own plate in regret.

To make up for it, he goes full Igbo big-boy mode and orders ten designer bags from his guy in Aba. Love language? Import and export.

Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story is streaming on Netflix.

Amanda and Goch from Loving Amanda

Amanda (Teniola Aladese) and Goch (Blossom Chukwujekwu) decide that this year’s Valentine’s gifts will be all about words—no fancy presents, just heartfelt messages.

Goch, ever the romantic, fills the house with little notes listing all the reasons he loves Amanda. Cute, right? But as she picks them up, she stumbles on a few very detailed, very instructive ones.

Next thing you know, their Valentine’s Day turns into an intense, sweaty, chest-to-chest session that leaves those love notes scattered on the floor for entirely different reasons.

Loving Amanda is streaming on Prime Video.

READ: 25 of the Best Nollywood Romance Movies to Watch This Valentine’s Day

Anna and Elijah from Breath of Life

Elijah (Chimezie Imo) and Anna (Genoveva Umeh) start their Valentine’s Day by volunteering for community work, because love, for them, is about giving back.

Later that night, the gifts come out. Anna surprises Elijah with an old Bible she found, filled with his father’s handwritten notes. He, ever the thoughtful one, gives her a necklace with the date they met engraved on the back.

Feeling the moment, Elijah tries to move to Anna. But Anna, ever steadfast, smiles and reminds him that God’s love is the greatest—then gently suggests they round up the night at church instead.

Breath of Life is streaming on Prime Video.

Hankuri and Dimeji from Love Is War

Dimeji (Richard Mofe-Damijo) and Hankuri (Omoni Oboli) are both too busy running the political game to actually spend Valentine’s Day together. So, they send each other gifts that take them back to when they were younger—nostalgic, sweet, and full of history.

Dimeji promises a proper dinner for a later date, but the real show begins when he returns home. Picture this: he pulls up in a campaign bus, megaphone in hand, leading a chorus of party members loudly singing love songs at the top of their lungs. Politics? Sure. Romance? Very much alive.

Love is War is streaming on Netflix.

Isoken and Kevin from Isoken

The day kicks off with Kevin (Marc Rhys) sending Isoken (Dakore Egbuson-Akande) a bouquet of flowers to her office, complete with a handwritten note that makes her smile more than she cares to admit.

For their date, they keep it simple but sweet—picnic under the stars. Kevin, being the thoughtful guy he is, gifts her a mini gramophone loaded with all her favourite old-school tunes. 

Isoken, absolutely vibing to the music, can’t help but dance with excitement—though she almost stops mid-twist and asks, “Where are the Naija 2000 classic hits?” Because, let’s face it, a picnic isn’t complete without a little 2Baba.

Isoken is streaming on Netflix.

Kaima and George from Fine Wine

George (Richard Mofe-Damijo) knows the way to Kaima’s (Ego Nwosu) heart is through books and wine. So, for Valentine’s, he gifts her a signed first edition of her favourite book and a bottle of wine he personally made with ingredients that remind him of her. Extra points for thoughtfulness.

Kaima, never one to be outdone, surprises George with a spontaneous day trip to Italy. They spend the day wine tasting, struggling to pronounce “gelato” in the most dramatic bad accents, all while gossiping about their miserable, single friends in Lagos. Because nothing says romance like being a little extra while enjoying the finer things in life.

Fine Wine is streaming on YouTube.

Kemi and Tunde from Flower Girl

Tunde (Blossom Chukwujekwu) has the sweetest Valentine’s Day plan for Kemi (Damilola Adegbite). He takes her to a mini garden he’s carefully cultivated with all her favourite flowers. Blindfolded, Kemi is led to the surprise—until they arrive, and Tunde’s heart almost skips a beat. Unknown goats have eaten half of the garden! Talk about a plot twist.

Kemi, ever the calming presence, tells him not to worry. They ditch the flowers and settle in to watch their favourite movie instead. She gifts him a watch with a funny inside joke engraved on it.

But Tunde? He spends the rest of the night mumbling under his breath, wishing he could find those goats and show them the opposite of love. Maybe next Valentine’s, he’ll add a goat-proof fence to the list.

Flower Girl is streaming on Prime Video.

Ope and Deji from Royal Hibiscus Hotel

Deji (Kenneth Okoli) pulls out all the stops for Valentine’s by whisking Ope (Zainab Balogun) away to Paris. The entire trip is basically an excuse to eat everything in sight and then hide in their hotel room, indulging in good food and even better company. Deji, being the thoughtful (and slightly cheeky) boyfriend, creates a recipe book of all her favourite dishes—though let’s be real, after they return to Lagos, his cooking skills might be limited to Indomie.

They take a leisurely walk through the City of Love, snapping a few selfies. But in true Nollywood fashion, the romantic vibe gets interrupted when a thief snatches Deji’s phone mid-selfie. Ah, Paris… always full of surprises. At least they still have each other—and a solid recipe book.

Royal Hibiscus Hotel is streaming on Netflix.

Play This Quiz: Which Nigerian Celebrity Marriage do you Deserve to be a Third in?

2024 is that drama-filled reality show that is our dear country Nigeria and didn’t need a script. From economic woes to political tension, it’s been a wild ride. But amidst all the Nigerian turmoil and complaints here and there, global pop culture also served as our trusty distraction — a much-needed escape from the chaos.

We’re counting down 15 pop culture moments that stole our attention, sparked joy, and started conversations locally and worldwide. Here are some 2024 pop culture highlights that defined this stressful year.

Films and TV Shows

Shōgun

When Shōgun, a historical TV show, came out, it became viral due to its samurai details and other Japanese culture elements. The show became so popular, viewers made and posted memes weekly in anticipation for new episodes. It ended up bagging Emmy Awards nominations.

Baby Reindeer

The tea is, Baby Reindeer‘s success was largely due to its unflinching honesty and unconventional storytelling approach. Richard Gadd, the mastermind behind the series, bared his soul, drawing heavily from his personal experiences with stalking and abuse. This raw authenticity resonated deeply with audiences, making the show feel more like a mirror reflection of real life than a scripted drama.

Wicked

If you’ve seen recent media coverage of Cynthia Erivo and Arianna Grande, they’re currently on a media tour for a musical film titled Wicked. They co-starred in this film about friendship. It’s an all-round excitement. From its colour and lighting being debated to internet memes, the Glinda/Elphaba fandom, and return to theatre and musical production.

John Boyega and Skepta at AFRIFF 2024

The African International Film Festival held in Lagos had big hitters like international actor John Boyega and international rapper Skepta in attendance at its 2024 edition. Skepta’s short film, Tribal Marks, screened at the event. Boyega had a panel conversation about the challenges new actors face and also hinted he’s working on a new project with  Genevieve Nnaji.

Music

Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake

Kendrick Lamar and Drake, two of the biggest rappers in the world finally went at each other after years of sneaking dissing (mostly from Drake) and beef rumours. Their back-and-forth this year gave us nine scathing and earth-scorching diss tracks, four from Drake and five from Kendrick. It’s considered the biggest rap beef ever and Kendrick won, based on public opinion.

“Cowboy Carter”

Last year, Beyoncé released a 27-track country album, paying homage to her Houston and Louisiana roots and showcasing her range as a musician and concept writer. Bey = MOTHER.

The Mavin-UMG deal

In February 2024, an investor and company called TGP exited Nigerian music label and company Mavin Records and sold its majority stake to Universal Music Group (UMG). It was acquired by UMG for nothing less than $125 million in sales price and $150 million to $200 million in valuation. Mavin is still running with Don Jazzy as CEO and Tega Oghenejobo, the newly appointed president and COO. This deal is considered the biggest exit ever in African entertainment.

Big Smoke and Tobacco

Nigerian singer Portable and Nigerian-British rapper and producer Skepta released their song “Tony Montana” in March 2024. The surprising fire song became so huge that it peaked at number one on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Music Nigeria charts. The music video also bagged a million views in four days. It remains one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2024.

Wizkid vs Davido

This year, Afrobeats A-listers Wizkid and Davido went from subtly dissing each other to publicly throwing jabs on social media. The singers resurrected their longtime beef in April after unprovoked clapbacks and rants at his fans and colleagues. Since then, months after months, it’s been a dick swing between them. Wizkid resumed the online beef in October, calling Davido “wack” and “talentless.”

READ: 5 Top Nigerian Creators of 2024

Entertainment 

The WAG Movement

The popular movement of Wives and Girlfriends (WAG) of sports celebrities was revived this year in a solo effort by Tolani Benson, the girlfriend of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka. She was one of the unforgettable moments of the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Face card >>>>

Celebrities lookalike contests

A Timothée Chamalets lookalike competition drew such a large crowd that the police eventually had to break up. But it didn’t stop at Timothée. Doppelganger contests of Drake and Justin Bieber have happened since then.

Nollywood veterans’ call-to-glory

In March 2024, after an amputation and a long battle with his health, Nigerian comedic actor Mr Ibu passed away at 64. In less than 24 hours, another actor, Quadri Oyebamiji (AKA Sisi Quadri) died too.

In less than four months, we lost another Nigerian actress, singer, broadcaster — Onyeka Onwenu. According to the confirmed news report, the singer-songwriter and actress slumped and died after a performance at a birthday party.

Hawk Tuah

In a street interview that went viral in 2024, Hailey Welch, an interviewee, used the slang “Hawk tuah” to describe spitting on it during oral sex. Hawk Tuah >>> Gawk Gawk 3000. 

Demure

A TikToker named Jools Lebron went viral in a TikTok video in 2024 where used the word “demure” to explain what it means to keep it “cutesy”. If “Very demure, very mindful” is not the most used statement in 2024, it’s in the top three.

The incarceration of Mummy of Laygurz

In April 2024, Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison after she was found guilty of mutilating the Nigerian currency. The saga provoked outrage from concerned Nigerians due to the unusually fast proceedings of the court and the sentencing.

After Bobrisky got released in August, a rumour that she didn’t spend the whole of her sentence in jail sparked controversy about corruption in the Nigerian prison and justice system. Anyway, Bobrisky came back home to a lot of cheers, money donations and boos from admirers and haters alike.

ALSO READ: 10 Nigerians Share their New Year’s Resolutions for 2025

Intimacy comes with vulnerability, and with vulnerability comes the possibility of premium disgrace. But what happens after the moment passes? Do you laugh it off, cry into your pillow, or block the person forever?

We asked 8 Nigerians to share their most embarrassing bedroom experiences and how they recovered from the awkwardness. If you’ve ever had a moment that made you want the ground to swallow you, this is proof that you’re not alone, and yes, you can bounce back.

“I farted and pooed a little while we were doing it”  

There are embarrassing moments, and then there are moments that make you want to flee the country and start over. *Uju, 27, found herself in the latter category. She shares:

“I had been holding in a fart all evening because my boyfriend was around, but my stomach clearly had other plans. Mid-action, I let out what I thought was a silent one, but the warm feeling that followed told me I had messed up.

My boyfriend jumped up like someone hit ‘pause’ on his body, and I froze in horror. Before he could say anything, I ran to the bathroom. When I came back, he was just sitting there, looking at me. The only thing he said was, “So what do we do now?”

I wanted to cry, but instead, I apologised, owned up to it, and suggested we change the sheets and move on. He laughed and said, “At least you didn’t pretend it didn’t happen.” It was still embarrassing, but he didn’t make me feel bad, which made it easier to recover from.”

Lesson learned: Sometimes, the best way to handle embarrassment is to own up to it before your partner has a chance to make it worse. If they can’t handle something as natural as a bodily accident, maybe they’re not the right person for you.

“I took her to my uncle’s house and he walked in”

Borrowing a house is one thing. Getting caught in it is another. *Timi, 29, learned why honesty is always the best policy.

“I had been seeing this babe for a while, and when we finally decided to, you know, get down to business, I took her to my uncle’s house. He had been away for weeks, so I figured we’d be safe. Everything was going great until we heard the front door unlock. I barely had time to pull the blanket over us before my uncle stepped in. He stared at me, then at her, then back at me, and just said, “Ah, Timi. So this is what you use my house for?”

To make things worse, I had told the babe it was my house. She grabbed her things, ran past my uncle, and blocked me immediately after. My uncle, on the other hand, laughed at me for a week straight.”

Lesson learned: Don’t lie about what you don’t own, and definitely don’t bring people into spaces you can’t control. If you’re going to be intimate, make sure it’s a place where you won’t need to start explaining yourself mid-action.

“I lost my wig while on top” 

Wigs are meant to elevate your confidence, not embarrass you. *Ronke, 26, shares how her lace betrayed her at the worst time.

“I was feeling myself, giving my best performance, when my wig slipped off and landed right on his chest. For a few seconds, we just stared at the wig. Then he looked at me and started laughing. I snatched it off his chest, threw it aside, and we kept going.”

Lesson learned: If you’re going to wear a wig to bed, secure it properly. Or better yet, own it. The person is already seeing you in all your glory, what’s a little exposed koroba style?

“I coughed, and the smell that followed ended the night”

*Chuka, 30, didn’t even know what a tonsil stone was until one ruined his entire night. He shares:

“Everything was going great. We were kissing, touching, getting lost in the moment. Then, I felt a tickle in my throat. I tried to ignore it, but the sensation wouldn’t go away. Before I could stop myself, I let out a small cough. I felt something dislodge from my throat and land right on the pillow beside her.

She picked it up looking confused. It was a tiny, off-white speck. Then, before I could react, she sniffed it. The gag reflex that followed was insane. Her face contorted in disgust, and she jumped off the bed. That’s when the smell hit me too — a mix of rotten eggs, sewage, and pure evil. She grabbed her perfume and started spraying the air like she was performing an exorcism. Meanwhile, I was just sitting there, horrified, wondering if this stench had been coming from my mouth all along.

We didn’t continue. We didn’t even cuddle. The rest of the night was spent in awkward silence, her on one side of the bed, me on the other, furiously Googling “tiny white balls that smell like poo.” That’s how I discovered tonsil stones. Apparently, they’re small bits of food and bacteria that get stuck in your tonsils and ferment into a smell so bad, it can end relationships.”

Lesson learned: If your breath is mysteriously bad, no matter how much you brush, check your tonsils. And always carry mints. 

The subject of this Sex Life article talks about the various ways she’s tried to spice up her sex life and realising sex isn’t something she’ll ever enjoy. 

“She called me by her ex’s name” 

*Seyi, 32, was having a great time until he heard the one name that should never have entered the chat.

“We were deep in the moment when she moaned her ex’s name. I froze immediately and she started apologising, but the damage was already done. I tried to laugh it off, but deep down, I was fighting for my life. No matter what she said after, all I could hear was his name echoing in my head.

We tried to move past it, but eventually, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was just a placeholder. We broke up a few months later.”

Lesson learned: If this ever happens to you, don’t just apologise, explain. Your partner will need a lot of reassurance that they aren’t just a rebound.

“I passed out, and he thought I had died”

*Aisha, 27, just wanted a good time. Instead, she almost gave her man a heart attack.

“I don’t know who sent me to try a new position that required me to bend my neck at an awkward angle. All I remember is feeling lightheaded, then everything went black. I woke up to the sound of my boyfriend crying. This man was shaking me violently, screaming, “Aisha, please wake up!” I tried to tell him I was okay, but he was already on the phone with his friend. When I finally sat up, he started praising God like he had just witnessed a resurrection. We never spoke about it again, and we never attempted that position again either.”

Lesson learned: If you feel dizzy, stop immediately. No one wants to go from sexy time to emergency prayers.

“He spat phlegm on me as lubricant” 

*Joy, 28, thought she had seen it all until her partner introduced a bodily fluid she was not expecting.

“We were making out, and things were getting intense. I was expecting him to reach for actual lube when I suddenly heard him clear his throat. Before I could process what was happening, this man spat a thick ball of phlegm on me. I screamed, “What the actual hell?” and jumped off the bed. I packed my things immediately and left. The worst part? He didn’t see anything wrong with it.

Lesson learned: If you ever find yourself in this situation, don’t walk — RUN. Some things can’t be explained away.

“I douched for an hour, but my body still disgraced me” 

*Femi, 26, thought he had done everything right. His body had other plans.

“I spent an hour douching before meeting up with my partner because I wanted to be fresh and accident-free. Everything was going smoothly until I felt a sudden shift. At first, I tried to ignore it, but then I saw my partner’s face change. I turned around, and that’s when I saw it.

I was so mortified, I immediately ran to the bathroom. My partner was super chill about it, but I was too embarrassed to continue. I just wanted to evaporate.

Lesson learned: Even with the best prep, accidents can still happen. The key is choosing a partner who won’t make you feel ashamed.

“The condom wouldn’t fit, and my ‘big size’ stopped being a flex”

*Kunle, 28, thought being well-endowed was an advantage, not until it became a logistical nightmare.

“I had been hyping myself for weeks because this babe had been dropping hints about how she was game. In my head, I was about to deliver premium wickedness.

But when it was time to suit up, the condom refused to cooperate. I tried to roll it down, and it got stuck halfway. I tried again, and it snapped. She laughed and tried to help, but it only made the entire thing worse. We tried a different brand. Same struggle. At some point, she just sat there watching me wrestle the condom. The room got awkwardly quiet. My “big size” should have been a flex, but at that moment, I just felt ridiculous. Eventually, I had to admit defeat.

She gave me a pity hug and said we should consider another time, but there was no next time. She eventually stopped replying to my texts, and I’m 90% sure she told her friends.”

Lesson learned: Being well-endowed is great until you can’t use it. Always have size options or know where to get them fast because struggling with a condom for 20 minutes is not sexy.

Embarrassing moments during intimacy are completely normal. But if you’re struggling to regain your rhythm, here’s a useful guide to help you reclaim your sexual confidence.

TAKE THIS QUIZ: How Is Your Sex Game?

The Nigerian experience is physical, emotional, and sometimes international. No one knows it better than our features on #TheAbroadLife, a series where we detail and explore Nigerian experiences while living abroad. 

Tolu (33) took a big leap of faith when she moved to Canada as a permanent resident in 2019. But it paid off—in less than five years, she became a Canadian citizen, homeowner, wife, mother, and soon-to-be U.S. green card holder. 

Where do you live, and when did you move from Nigeria?

I live in Houston now. I left Nigeria in 2019 but first lived in Canada before moving to Houston in 2023.

Let’s start from the beginning: how did the move to Canada happen?

I moved to Canada as a permanent resident in 2019. It was a major decision because my parents didn’t want me to move without a spouse. We didn’t have any family abroad, so they were uncomfortable with me moving to a new country by myself. To assure them  I could handle it, I made sure I found a job in Canada before I left. It was a Big Four company (and I also worked at a Big Four company in Nigeria). I sent out at least 500 applications before I finally got that job, but getting it made it easier to convince my parents to give their blessings.

Accommodation was an issue initially, but my dad reached out to some members of his old student association, and one of the women in the association offered to house me for one month. After that first month, I moved into my place and started my life in Canada. 

500 applications is crazy. How did it feel to start over in Canada?

It was easier for me because I got a job before I left Nigeria, and they also paid my relocation fee of about $2,000. But getting my own place was a struggle because house hunting is a bit hectic in Canada.

The months that followed after I moved into my house were also rough– I spent my first Christmas away from my family, and while I was still grappling with it, COVID started, and the organization I worked for started layoffs. Thankfully, I survived it. At some point, I started a food business for fun. I didn’t have friends, so cooking for other people gave me a sense of community. The more people referred me, the more I met new people. 

I’m glad. Did you experience any culture shock in Canada?

Back in Nigeria, I was a team lead. I moved to Canada and had to take a few steps back, even though I was functioning in the same role I had in Nigeria. In addition, the people I had as team leads were less experienced. The organization said they needed to lead because they wanted me to first understand how things worked in the country. But I knew it was bullshit. Racism is very subtle in Canada, but it’s there.

It was mentally draining for me to be on that team and disappear into the background while my juniors, who I was more qualified than, played the team lead. I also had a tough time getting used to how much they fake smiled in Canada, but I had to get used to it. 

Sorry about that. At what point did you know you wanted to leave Canada?

I never knew I was going to leave Canada. During COVID, I met my husband online.  He was living in the US, so I wasn’t serious about it at first. But the other people I was talking to were dead ends. Around August 2021, he flew into Canada to ask me out officially.  I knew then he wanted to be serious, so even though I was sceptical at first, I ended up giving in.  He ended up spending about ten days with me and it was on his second day with me that  I told my friend I would marry him.

We had our introduction in February 2022 via Zoom. After that, we got married legally in April 2022  in Canada. We finalized things by getting married traditionally in Nigeria sometime in July.   I knew I’d have to move to the US eventually, but before we became serious, I bought my first home in Canada. That was sometime in 2021,  less than two years after I moved to Canada. 

That’s huge. How were you able to achieve that?

Interest rates were really good at the time. When I got married, moving to the US was a natural decision. We applied for a Green card immediately, and I had our baby nine months into the marriage.  At this point, I was already a Canadian citizen, and that came with many benefits that made living in the US easier even before the green card was approved. An agreement between Canada, the US and Mexico made it easy for me to get a work permit to move to the US. It’s called a TN Visa. So that was how I moved to the US. Our green card is still in the works, but I joined my husband in 2023.

What’s happening with your property in Canada now that you’re in the US?

When I wanted to buy a property, I set out to buy one that I could rent out. So, before I bought the property, I made sure the bylaws included that I could rent it out. That’s why it wasn’t hard to make that move. But now that I’m no longer a resident of Canada, the taxes I have to pay are slightly different. 

Interesting. How did your parents react to your marriage?

Oh, they were so happy. You don’t understand how much Nigerian parents want you to marry as soon as possible, plus the fact that I was almost 30 at the time. Being a Nigerian girl, you know your parents start stressing when you reach that age. His family was happy as well. Our parents met before we got married, and my parents immediately liked them. 

I love that for you.  What’s the biggest difference between living in the US and Canada?

People are nicer in Canada than in the US. At least, when you’re having a bad day in Canada, people will smile at you, but in the US, everybody just wants to make their money. Both countries have many similarities, but I’d prefer raising my children in the US. 

ALSO READ: “I’m Carrying My Green Card Everywhere Now That Trump is President”

How is motherhood and married life going?

It’s been beautiful. My toddler hasn’t started daycare yet, but I have a live-in nanny because the money is better here. I had a one-year maternity leave in Canada, so I had time to bond with my baby, although I only used eight out of the 12 months because I got a job in the US. The downside is that maternity leave is just three months in the US. But having a nanny makes life easier. 

On a scale of one to 10, how happy are you with your life right now?

I have a good job. I have a good family, and I love my partner. I’ll say 10 over 10. 

Do you want to share your Abroad Life story? Please reach out to me here. For new episodes of Abroad Life, check in every Friday at 12 PM (WAT). 

Valentine’s Day is easily one of the most expensive holiday celebrations in Nigeria and around the world, falling only a little behind Christmas and Eid. 

Lovers everywhere scheme and plan in the days leading up to February 14 for the most heartfelt gestures to show their love for their significant other and potential love interests. What does this planning look like from a financial perspective? Has inflation and the current state of the economy impacted their plans this year?

We spoke to five Nigerians in relationships, and they walked us through their budgets for Valentine’s Day, breaking down the level of planning that goes into the day and how inflation has impacted their Valentine’s celebrations.

Oba, 31

Valentine’s Day budget: ₦70k

Plan: Indoor dinner and a few gifts

If there’s one thing Oba will do, it’s to shower his wife with gifts on special occasions like Valentine’s Day and her birthday. In 2023, he bought her a ₦450k HP laptop to practice UI/UX Design. In 2024, he bought her a wig and some dresses that cost him a little over ₦200k. It’s 2025, and he’s had to scale down his plans.

“There are more things taking my money these days. My landlord just increased my rent from ₦800k to ₦1.7m in November. Fuel is expensive, transportation costs keep climbing up, and we now have a child to spend on. So, I can’t do as much for Valentine’s Day this year as I’d have liked.

I’ll just order food from my wife’s favourite fast-food place and arrange it on our dining table with rose petals. In January, I bought about 200 fake rose petals for ₦4k. Last week, I placed an order for a ₦12k bento cake. The food should cost about ₦15k for both of us. I also bought her a ₦35k pair of shoes.

I planned to get one of those surprise planners to deliver the gifts and a ₦50k money bouquet to my wife’s office. But they charged me ₦250k. My wife would fight me if I even spent that much with how we’re just trying to get by.”

Clara, 26

Valentine’s Day budget: ₦200k

Plan: Surprise credit alert

Clara landed her dream job a month ago. But before that, her boyfriend financially supported her while she was unemployed for seven months. So, she plans to return the favour with a cash gift on Valentine’s Day.

“I started planning for Valentine’s Day from the moment I got my job in January. I set aside ₦200k to change two of my boyfriend’s car tyres for Valentine’s Day. He’d been complaining about getting harassed by the FRSC because his tyres were bad. 

Two weeks ago, I realised I know nothing about tyres or what model would work for his car. I also couldn’t ask because it’d be too suspicious. So, I’ll just send him the money and indicate that it’s for his tyres. I can’t wait to see his reaction.”

Jonathan, 34

Valentine’s Day budget: ₦160k

Plan: Flowers for my women

Last year, Jonathan was in a serious relationship with his girlfriend of three years, so he pulled out all the stops. He used ₦125k — half a month’s salary — to buy moissanite earrings and pay for a beach date. Unfortunately, that relationship ended some months later. Now, he’s coasting through two semi-serious talking stages.

“Both women will probably be expecting me to do something for Valentine’s Day, so I plan to get them flowers. I got two bouquets at ₦75k each, and the vendor charged me roughly ₦10k to deliver to both of them. 

I probably shouldn’t bother because I’m not officially in a relationship with either woman, but I’m sure they’ll ghost me if I don’t mark the day somehow.”

If you’re reading this and thinking, ”Must be nice to have that much money to spare,” then you should read how this 18-year-old made ₦6m in one year and get your money up. 

Gabriel, 23

Valentine’s Day budget: ₦18k

Plan: Make a playlist and gift her perfume

It’s Gabriel’s first time celebrating Valentine’s Day with a girlfriend, and he’s worried his plans may not be good enough. As a ₦33k-earning corps member, he doesn’t have the leeway to make grand gestures.

“In December, my girlfriend sent me a screenshot of an ₦18k perfume she wanted for her birthday, but I couldn’t afford it. After I sort out transportation and data from my allawee, I hardly have up to ₦10k left to feed. She wasn’t happy I couldn’t get the perfume, but she understood why.

Thankfully, an uncle recently gave me ₦20k, so the perfume business is settled. My girlfriend loves playlists, so I’m making one with her favourite artists. She’ll probably love the gifts, but I wish I could do more. She’ll definitely see grander gestures online.

Chioma, 29

Valentine’s Day budget: ₦40k

Plan: Gift him a picture frame and food platter

Chioma used to have one rule for birthdays and Valentine’s Day: The gifts had to be items the recipient could use, like clothes, gadgets or accessories. She thought things like picture frames and customised throw pillows were lazy attempts at gifting. Now, she’s singing a different tune.

“My initial plan was to make my husband a set of Senator wear outfits, cuff links and shoes. But things are so expensive now that the shoes I bought for ₦15k in 2023 now cost ₦45k. I’m still shocked. When I calculated everything I wanted to buy, it came down to almost ₦100k. I had to calm down.

So, I’m getting him a picture frame even though I used to shout that it was a useless gift. The frame costs ₦10k.

I also plan to cook two different dishes and arrange them on a platter when he returns from work. He loves food, so he’ll be happy. The meals shouldn’t cost me more than ₦30k to prepare. Everyone will eat and be happy. At least that’s something.”

*Names have been changed for anonymity.

Subscribe to the Money by Zikoko Newsletter for more stories like this. It’ll only take a minute.

Now you’ve read how people spend their money. How about how they make them? Get tips from this 53-year-old who retired as a billionaire.

Receiving or giving Valentine’s Day gifts is cute and all, but what if we told you the nature of the gift itself can determine just how serious your relationship actually is? Well, it can. Walk with us.

Flowers

This gives “We’re new in the relationship, so let’s see how it goes” vibes. Flowers can also mean there’s plenty of romance in your relationship, but unfortunately, they’re not a reliable indicator of how serious it might be.

Money bouquet

Money is always a good idea, but why are you stressing the love of your life with the task of unfolding several notes? What happened to just transferring the money or giving them stacks if a cash gift is the goal? The relationship might be serious, but they’re probably not seriously in love with you.

Investments

Your relationship is not just serious; your partner is also concerned about your future. Nothing says true love quite like discussing how to build wealth and secure your financial future. Bonus if it’s a real estate investment that appreciates over time and can be a passive income source like Gazania Park, inside Periwinkle Estate, developed by Blue Square Limited. All that’s needed to start is a 40% initial deposit; you can even pool investments with your partner or friend.

Food

This could go in two ways. Your partner either understands that you value having a full stomach before anything else, or food was the easiest gift option they could think of. Whatever the case, the seriousness of your relationship is in question. They had 364 days to give you food. Couldn’t they switch it up for Valentine’s Day?

Words of affirmation

In the immortal words of Shakespeare, “Na words of affirmation we go chop?” I mean, your partner loves you and wants you to know it, but let’s be honest. If they were serious, they’d have planned to add something tangible to the gift.

Dinner date

Your partner is willing to visit an overpriced restaurant on what’s probably the most expensive night of the year to show their love for you. That’s pretty serious.

A house

This is as serious as it gets. Your partner clearly sees you in their future and wants to create a legacy with you. 

Pro tip: Push your partner in the right direction by telling them to check out Blue Square Limited. They’re a property development company in Nigeria that helps young Nigerians invest in real estate and grow income through rental yields. They even have payment plans and mortgage options, so you can start at your own pace. You should check them out.

I recently interviewed Nigerians about how they dealt with cheating partners, but I wanted to hear from people who took a different route — those who cheated as payback.

In this story, *Blessing, 24,  talks about giving her boyfriend multiple chances, the betrayal that finally pushed her over the edge, and how her revenge mission left her with more regret than satisfaction.

As told to Adeyinka

I wish I could say I’m proud of what I did, but I’m not. I thought getting even would make me feel better, but all it left me with was regret, a messy situation I can’t untangle, and a stalker I didn’t sign up for.

I met *Tobi when I was 21, fresh into university and hopelessly in love with the idea of love. He was funny, sweet, and the kind of guy who knew exactly what to say to make you feel special. When he first asked me out, I didn’t even think twice. It felt like one of those meant-to-be moments, almost like I was entering the kind of fairytale love story I had always imagined for myself.

And for a while, it really was perfect.

He listened to me, sent me thoughtful texts throughout the day, and never let me sleep upset. He made me feel like the most important person in the world. I trusted him completely. Until I walked into his hostel one evening and saw him with a strange lady on the bed. His roommate gave me a look that instantly told me something was wrong. The way Tobi was sweating and avoiding my eyes confirmed everything. He had something weird going on with the lady before I walked in on them. 

A mistake. That’s what Tobi called it, too. He swore it only happened once, that it meant nothing. I should have left then, but he begged, and against my better judgment, I forgave him. I convinced myself we had moved past it. I ignored the tiny voice in my head that whispered that if he could do it once, he could do it again. And for a while, things felt normal.

TAKE THE QUIZ: Will You Forgive a Cheating Partner?

Then, during one of our long school breaks, his cousin casually slipped up during a phone call.  “That time Tobi carry that babe go Ibadan ehn…” I didn’t even let him finish before I asked, “What babe?”

His voice changed instantly. He knew he had messed up, but it was already too late. That’s how I found out Tobi had taken a whole weekend getaway with another girl while I was in my mother’s house thinking we were good.

This time, I didn’t cry. I was too numb. I had imagined every possible way a person could hurt me, and he had found new ways to disappoint me twice. I thought about confronting him, but what was the point? He would lie, beg, and promise to change, a cycle I didn’t want to keep repeating.

So, instead, I thought about revenge.

I considered all my options. I could ignore his calls and make him beg for weeks. I could break up with him without explanation, leaving him confused and paranoid. Or I could give him one last round of sex and ghost him after. But none of those felt satisfying. I didn’t just want to hurt him. I wanted to humiliate him. That’s when I decided to sleep with his friend.

It wasn’t even a guy I liked, just one of his boys who had been playfully flirting with me for months. I had always brushed it off, but in that moment, he became my weapon of choice. I started replying his messages, laughing at his dry jokes, and making conversation where I usually ignored him. It didn’t take long before he picked up on the energy shift. One evening, I casually mentioned that I was home alone and he offered to come over. That was all the confirmation I needed.

That night, I let him kiss me. I let him touch me. I let him think he was the one in control when, in reality, I was pulling all the strings. I kept telling myself Tobi deserves this. He needs to feel what I felt. But the moment it was over, my entire body screamed MISTAKE.

The sex wasn’t even good. I wasn’t into it; I barely felt anything. When it ended, I just lay there, staring at the ceiling and wondering what I had just done, I felt sick. I didn’t even tell my boyfriend. The revenge didn’t feel worth it anymore. But the guy I slept with? He refuses to leave me alone.

He keeps texting, calling, even showing up at my place uninvited, acting like we had a thing when I literally just wanted revenge. Meanwhile, I’m still with Tobi, pretending everything is fine, but inside, I feel like a fraud. I don’t know what’s worse, the fact that I stooped to his level or that I still love him even after everything.

I wanted to hurt him, but the only person I truly hurt was myself.

In this Love Life article, we interview a young Nigerian couple who opens up about how they’ve overcome infidelity in their relationship.

I do this for all lovers.

Whether you’re boo’d up with the love of your life, on a baecation, navigating a long-distance relationship, or simply manifesting self-love, there’s a perfect love song waiting for you.

As always, I’m here to serve! I’ve curated the perfect Nigerian love songs for every mood. Struggling to find the right words to express your love? Missing someone so much it feels impossible to breathe? Trying to get their attention but feeling a little shy? Or maybe you just want a song to hold onto a special memory? Whatever it is, this #BumpThis playlist has something for you.

Here are the 10 best Afrobeats love song for every mood:

In the Mood for Baecation

“Love On Weekends” – Show Dem Camp (ft. Tomi Agape Ladipoe)

Weekends are the perfect time for love—no work stress, just personal time for personal things. Whether it’s a cosy stay-in or a romantic getaway, this song perfectly captures that “just me and you” vibe. 

With  Tomi Agape’s soothing chorus and rap verses from Ladipoe, Ghost and Tec, “Love On Weekends” highlights the beauty of presence, communication, physical touch, and pure enjoyment. If you haven’t heard it before, consider it the perfect addition to your weekend playlist—especially if you’re in love.

“Money and Laughter” – BOJ (ft. Amaarae and Zamir)

In this song, the feeling of being high on love is undeniable. BOJ  is in awe of his love interest—her beauty leaves him in awe, and all he wants is to make her life more comfortable, showering her with luxurious gifts. This track is all about being the kind of person who’s ready to drop everything for their partner—whether it’s money or time, they’re there to make them happy.

This is a feel-good love song. Picture “Money and Laughter” as you and bae shooting water guns in a stunning Bora Bora pool. Amaarae and Zamir’s features bring the perfect mix of teasing, hippy vibes, and playful energy that adds a naughty edge, exactly what lovers (and the girlies) enjoy.

In a Happy Mood

“Ife Wa Gbona” – Tiwa Savage (ft. Leo Wonder)

“Ife Wa Gbona” translates to “Our love is hot” in Yorùbá. In this record, Tiwa Savage and Leo Wonder embody two lovers deeply in love, hand in hand, ready to face life’s ups and downs together—through the fire, the rain, and everything in between.

The vibe is just right, and the lyrics? Perfect for expressing your feelings. If you’re ever in need of the perfect words for a “I’m so happy to have you in my life and I don’t want it to end” speech, this song has you covered.

“You Are Like Melody, My Heart Skips A Beat” – M.I Abaga (ft. Lorraine Chia)

In this track, M.I. Abaga starts by offering all the sweetest words to a beautiful woman, but by the second verse, he makes it clear that his intention isn’t just to flatter. While he does compliment her, it’s filled with an intimacy that goes deeper than mere words. As a listener, you can almost feel his emotions as he pours out his heart.

Lorraine Chia’s chorus is pure magic, weaving poetry and melody into every note. M.I. was clearly deep in his feelings when creating this record. The nine-word title is no accident—it’s a complete sentence that reflects the joy and depth of his affection for his partner.

In a Lonely Mood

“Kokoro Ife” – Gabriel Afolayan

In 2015 Gabriel Afolayan (then known as G-Fresh!) gave us one of the greatest contemporary Nigerian love songs. Loneliness seems to have gripped him so tightly that he can barely catch his breath as he sings about wanting his lover back. Her love has transformed his life, and he can’t bear the thought of it ending.

In just four minutes and thirty-five seconds, Afolayan pours out his heart, expressing how much he misses her, his intense desire for love, and his dreams of her.

If ringtones were still a thing, “I Miss You” would have a designated Nigerian anthem—and that anthem would be “Kokoro Ife.” It’s a song drenched in deep passion and classic, real lover’s music.

“Wait For You” – Johnny Drille

This song is for those moments when you’re far away from your lover, missing them deeply, and needing to reassure them that you’re not going anywhere. Johnny Drille truly poured his heart into this one. The brilliance of the song might just be the result of his early, hungry artist days, but either way, “Wait For You” is a standout. It was one of his first releases after Project Fame, and it remains one of his best.

Highly recommended for anyone in a relationship.

P.S. Ignore the naysayers who say long-distance relationships are a recipe for disaster. If you’ve got something real, this track is the perfect addition to your playlist. Let it nurture your love as your heart grows fonder.

In the Mood for Youthful Exuberance

“Flashing Lights” – Tekno

In “Flashing Lights,” Tekno steps away from the fast-paced tempo of his usual hits and delivers a stripped-down, mid-tempo dancehall love jam. With lines like, “See me, I like the kind of vibe that’s for the fun / You made me feel like something new under the sun,” he captures your attention, making you stop everything to listen to his sweet words.

Not only does he compliment his lover’s fun and infectious energy, but Tekno also credits her with helping him become a better version of himself. This is the kind of playful lamba only Tekno could craft—cheesy, cute, and full of romance, just as any romantic Nigerian man would say.

“Joro” – Wizkid

In “Joro”  Wizkid sings with the fear of losing his lover heavy on his mind. Whether it’s a comforting lie or his true feelings, he weaves sweet melodies so softly that “yes” seems to be the only response to everything. It’s an absolute eargasm. In his signature pidgin English, he expresses how thoughts of her keep him up all night, then subtly adds a playful twist, “wini-wini, wana-wana,” hinting that he wants to keep her up all night too. (We all know what he means, don’t we?)

This is the kind of track you step, grind, and twerk to—all while being in the mood for love.

In the Mood for Romance

“Adore Her” – Ladipoe (ft. Funbi)

Love at first sight is the kind of magic that makes a rapper drop lines like, “I’m gonna leave this place with your number, like you’re gonna leave that church with my name.” Ladipoe is confident he’s found his missing rib, and Funbi,  catchy hook makes the song even more memorable.

If you’re overthinking whether or not to confess your feelings to someone, this track is your motivation. Even Ladipoe acknowledges that it might sound crazy, but it’s worth the risk. He closes with the audacious lines: “Is it just a kind of spell that I’m under? / Got me feeling crazy, girl, I must say.”

“Forever Sweet” – DOTTi The Deity

When the guitar strings and keyboard chords kick off this song, you might think it’s a soft ballad perfect for those mushy moments, like flying kites with your loved one. But then, the gangan and omele drums come in, turning it into a full-blown owambe party. This track is the kind of celebration suited for marriage or someone you see a lifetime with.

DOTTi The Deity, passionately sings in both Yoruba and English, calling his lover his “forever sweet Valentine.” On this day, there’s no better reminder of everlasting love than this song, a perfect ode to a love that lasts forever.

Listen here:

There’s nothing funny about being a broke student. The endless “bro, abeg” texts, checking your account balance like money will suddenly appear, and doing mental maths to see if your last ₦5k can cover data, transport, food, and a little flex.

But students across Nigeria have also managed to escape this struggle. From managing social media pages to editing videos and even gaming, students like you are making cool cash online. 

We spoke to some of them, and here’s what you need to know about how to make money online as a student in Nigeria.

7 Real Ways Nigerian Students Are Making Money Online

Good news: you don’t have to be broke when the internet exists. Here are 7 online income streams every student should know: 

1. Social Media Management 

Remember when your parents said, “You’re always on that phone”? Jokes on them because some students are getting paid to do exactly that. Social media managers handle Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok pages for businesses, keeping them active, engaging, and growing.

This is how Ameen, a 20-year-old third-year engineering student, is making it work:

“I started doing  Canva designs as a side hustle for extra cash in April 2024. I set up a Fiverr gig, and one day, a podcast brand in Manhattan reached out. At first, it was just small, one-off projects, but they kept coming back.

After a few months of back-and-forth projects, we took things off Fiverr and started communicating over email. That’s when they put me on a $200/month retainer to handle their Instagram designs and upload content on YouTube, Facebook and TikTok. I have Zoom meetings with my client once a week, where we strategise different ways to expand the brand’s visibility and reach. 

It’s not been difficult balancing it with my engineering degree. Once I schedule everything, I barely have to think about the workload.”

How to get started:

• Build an Online Presence: Grow your audience and treat your social media account like a portfolio.

• Learn the Basics: Master content creation, engagement strategies, and analytics. (YouTube, Coursera or HubSpot Academy).

• Get Hands-on Experience: Manage a friend’s business page, intern for a brand, or offer free services to a small business to build your portfolio.

• Master the Right Tools: Learn Canva (designs), Meta Business Suite (scheduling Instagram and Facebook posts), and Hootsuite or Buffer to manage multiple platforms simultaneously.

• Find Clients: Cold pitch your services to small businesses or professionals on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Upwork.

• Set Your Rates: Don’t undersell yourself. If a brand contacts you, they already see your value, so charge like it. Per Glassdoor, Social media managers in Nigeria earn between ₦73,000 and ₦210,000/month, with an average of ₦100,000. Entry-level gigs start at ₦50,000, while pros make over ₦ 300,000. 

2. Video Editing 

Everyone — from TikTok influencers to YouTubers — needs a good editor. If you can turn raw footage into a crisp, engaging video, you’re sitting on a skill that pays.

This is how Khaerat, a 19-year-old fourth-year law student, is making it work:

“I started creating video content on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok in my second year in uni, just for fun. But I was building a portfolio without realising it, and it landed me paying gigs.

I got my first gig in May 2024, about a year after I started editing videos for social media. I get paid according to my rate card. Right now, I have four video editing gigs: three pay me ₦50K each, and one pays ₦100K. I also juggle an ₦80K social media management job, all alongside my law degree.

Since I work best at night, I batch-edit my videos and designs to stay on top of everything. It’s also my way of unwinding from the demands of studying law.

I’ve landed all my jobs by simply tweeting about my work or commenting under posts to offer my services. It doesn’t feel overwhelming because I enjoy what I do, and with more experience, I’ve gained the confidence to charge higher and ditch toxic clients.

I use CapCut for editing, Canva for designs and Buffer to create and schedule content. After school, I plan to continue doing this alongside my legal career, especially since I’m going into corporate or business law—not litigation. I know my earning potential will grow when I have more time to take on bigger projects.”

How to get started:

• Learn the Basics: Start with free editing apps like CapCut, InShot or DaVinci Resolve before moving to more advanced software like Adobe Premiere Pro.

• Watch Tutorials & Practice: YouTube, Coursera, and Skillshare

• Offer Free or Discounted Work: Edit videos for small content creators or friends for proof of work.

• Create a Portfolio: Showcase your best work on platforms like Google Drive, Behance, or a simple Instagram/Twitter thread.

• Engage on Social Media: Post snippets of your work, engage with content creators and offer your services on these platforms.

• Find Paid Gigs: Start freelancing on Fiverr and Upwork, and use Twitter and LinkedIn to network.

• Charge Your Worth: Set competitive rates based on your skill level, but don’t undersell yourself. Increase your prices as you gain more experience.

• Stay Updated: Video trends change fast. Keep up with editing styles, effects, and platform-specific content demands.

• Build Client Relationships: Deliver quality work, communicate clearly, and retain long-term clients by being reliable.

3. E-commerce

Some students aren’t waiting for jobs; they’re creating them. From selling thrift clothes to launching skincare brands, e-commerce is thriving.

This is how Hikmat, a 22-year-old final-year Botany student, is making it work:

“I sell skincare products and get customers through WhatsApp, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. My Whatsapp catalogue makes ordering easy, and most of my customers are students in my hostel, department, and across campus.

I stock up on sheet masks, lip and eye masks, pimple patches, and nose pore strips from a Chinese e-commerce website (1688) through an agent. 

My first order cost ₦70k and included 160 sheet masks, 100 lip and eye masks plus shipping fee. Since I started in June 2024, I’ve made three times that amount in profit. In my first week alone, I pulled in ₦25k. I’ve restocked at least twice since then. However, I use sea shipping, which takes 2–3 months. I find that it’s best to order in bulk.

On an average month, I make ₦35k to ₦40k; on a bad month, ₦10k. But on a good month, I make ₦50k. Skincare is huge among students right now, so I knew I was tapping into the right market.  My earnings fluctuate because I haven’t been consistent.

I started this business because my ₦20k monthly allowance wasn’t cutting it, and I didn’t want to burden my family. 

I recommend starting this business if you have enough capital to buy in bulk. The competition is tough, and many sellers drop their prices just to attract customers. It only works if you’re buying at scale.”

How to get started:

• Do your market research: Understand what sells and who your target audience is.

• Choose a product with demand: Items like thrift clothes, skincare products, accessories, and gadgets are in high demand among students.

• Source Smartly: Buy from local markets or platforms like 1688/Alibaba.

• Choose the right channels: Sell on the right social media platforms (TikTok, Twitter, Instagram). By creating engaging content, you get free marketing.

• Market your business: Build visibility and attract customers.

• Manage your finances: Track earnings, reinvest and scale your business.

4. Graphic Design 

Logos, flyers, business cards, social media graphics; if you can design them, someone will pay you.

This is how Korede, a 22-year-old final-year Computer Science student, is making it work:

Korede, 22 (400 level, Computer Science)

“I was in 200 level when I realised I could make money from design. We had a class assignment, and my lecturer singled out my work as one of the best. But since what I study is programming-heavy, that one design class wasn’t enough. I wanted more. So, I started practising and sharing my work on WhatsApp, and before I knew it, someone paid me ₦5K for a logo. That was shocking because I survived on a  ₦3k weekly allowance at the time.  

I grew curious, obsessed and hungry for knowledge, but I didn’t have a laptop. So, I borrowed from friends and installed Corel Draw on a flash drive. A coursemate taught me the basics in a week, and I spent hours sitting behind students who designed after lecture hours, watching them navigate the software. That’s how I found Photoshop. It was tough at first, but I found a mentor on YouTube. 

Now, I don’t even have to post my work. Referrals keep me busy, and I make between ₦500k and ₦700k monthly. I design at least 15 graphics daily—party flyers, social media graphics, stickers, logos, banners, etc. I also work a design internship at a Nigerian EdTech company, earning ₦80K/month. On Fiverr, I do photo manipulation gigs and regular designs, making around $250–$300 monthly. Occasionally, I design branding assets for UK wedding and event brands. I won’t lie — I spend a lot of it on food because I never imagined making this much. But the workload is insane. My grades have dropped, and I have no social life. Sometimes, I skip class to meet deadlines. It’s draining, so I plan to cut down on party flyers and new recommendations and focus on my internship and Fiverr. The money is sweet, but I still need to graduate.

How to get started:

• Learn a design tool: Start with Photoshop or Illustrator.

• Build a portfolio: Offer free designs to small businesses and build a portfolio on Instagram and Behance.

• Show your work: Post consistently on social media.

• List your services: Sign up on Fiverr and Upwork.

• Keep improving: Take online courses and study trends.

5. Ghostwriting  

If you have a way with words, ghostwriting can be a lucrative hustle. Clients pay well for high-quality, anonymous content, from fiction to nonfiction and blog posts. You just need to know where to find them.

This is how Catherine, a 21-year-old final-year Human Physiology student, is making it work:

“I ghostwrite fiction for an international web novel company in the U.S., earning $300 per book. If a book performs well on the app, I get a bonus of $50 to $100, which pushes up my monthly earnings. It’s basically a 9-5, except I don’t leave my house.

I also take up side gigs on freelance platforms when I have time.

Before this, I earned ₦60k a month doing outsourced work for Nigerian writers who landed big gigs but paid me peanuts. Over time, I gained confidence and started charging my worth. Now, I source my own international clients on Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn and get paid in dollars directly. 

The company I currently write for is similar to Wattpad, and they even have a partner company that adapts books into short telenovela films and repurposes them into bite-sized paid ads for platforms like Snapchat. My Nigerian friend, who currently works as a senior editor at the company, recommended me, and it’s been a great experience since I started working there in July 2023. 

I typically write one book a month, but sometimes I push for two. When I write a full-length novel, the word count is 150,000 per book, while novellas are about 100,000 words.

Writing romance may seem easy, but it’s brutal. Some clients make me edit the same document 10 times before they’re satisfied. I put in about 80 hours a week, balancing school and deadlines.

I primarily work between lectures and late at night, but on free days, I wake up, check pending tasks, and grind all day. The workload can be overwhelming — tasks pile up, my head feels full, and sometimes, I just completely shut down. Now that I’m in my final year, juggling my thesis and writing is even harder, so I’m trying to cut back before it burns me out completely.

Will I keep ghostwriting after school? Yes. Will I do it full-time forever? Hell no. If I could start over, I’d charge my worth from day one. I let people underpay and exploit me at first, but never again.”

 How to get started:

• Pick a Niche: Specialise in a specific area to stand out and attract clients.

• Create a Portfolio: Start small. Write Twitter threads, Medium articles, or LinkedIn posts to showcase your writing style.

• Find Clients: List your services on Fiverr, Upwork, and LinkedIn platforms.

• Set Your Rates: Research how much ghostwriters in your niche earn and charge accordingly. Don’t undersell your work.

• Write Your Own Work: Avoid relying on AI to generate content. Clients pay for originality and creativity.  If you must use AI, limit it to best practices: research, brainstorming, or light editing.

• Stay Consistent: The more you write, the better you get. Deliver high-quality work on time, follow briefs carefully, and build relationships with clients for long-term success.

6. Crypto Jobs 

The crypto space is more than buying Bitcoin — it’s a whole economy. Some students trade, some play games to earn, and others take Crypto jobs.

This is how Fehin, a 21-year-old third-year History & International Relations student, is making it work:

“I make between $200 and $500 monthly from crypto jobs, but my highest monthly earnings have been up to $1,000. I got into crypto out of curiosity; I wanted to know how to make money online in Nigeria. 

I started by learning the basics, trading, and immersing myself in crypto communities. Now, I manage social media pages, primarily on Twitter and Discord, for big projects and communities and create content to drive engagement. I also take ambassador roles because I’ve grown my crypto Twitter following to 6000 plus.

Most of my gigs come from networking on Twitter. I got my current role because I was active in the community, engaging with projects and applying for ambassador programs. I dedicate 15–20 hours weekly to my crypto jobs, depending on my school workload.

The hardest part is managing time during exams. I schedule tasks in advance and focus on high-priority work. I plan to go into the crypto space full-time after school. If I had to start over, I’d prioritise networking and building a strong personal brand on Crypto Twitter earlier.

My advice? Learn valuable real-life skills: content creation, social media management, research, etc., be active in communities, and don’t be afraid to apply for roles. Networking and consistency are everything.”

How to get started:

• Learn the basics: Use YouTube and online resources to understand the fundamentals of crypto. 

• Establish a social identity: Build your presence on Crypto Twitter and grow your reputation by engaging in discussions and sharing insights.

• Penetrate communities: Look for active crypto communities to join on Telegram and Discord.

• Look for job opportunities: Explore Telegram, Discord, Twitter and crypto job listing platforms for opportunities.  (CryptoJobsList, SuperteamEarn, etc.)

• Apply and Network Relentlessly: Engage with community members and build connections.

7. Virtual Assistance 

If you’re good at handling tasks, replying to emails, or keeping things organised, you can make money as a Virtual Assistant (VA). Entrepreneurs, influencers, and busy professionals need help managing their workload and are willing to pay for it.

This is how Grace, a 21-year-old third-year Engineering Physics student, is making it work:

“I make an average of ₦120K monthly as a Virtual Assistant (VA).

I recently worked with a medical student, helping her source and compile data into readable files for her research. The contract lasted a month and paid well.

I got the job through a friend after consistently sharing my work and learning journey on social media. Building in public — documenting my training, progress, projects, and wins — helped me get noticed.

I started earning four months after completing my VA training on ALX Africa in 2024. My highest monthly earnings so far is ₦150K. Before this, I got ₦20K monthly from home — barely enough for transport, feeding, and study materials.

The job takes about 30 hours a week, which can be intense, but time management helps me balance it with school. I wake up early to complete tasks before class and structure my work hours around my school timetable. I also avoid taking on new projects during exams.

If you want to become a Virtual Assistant, get proper training, master tools like Trello, Calendly, Google Workspace, Notion, and Canva, and find a mentor. Most importantly, put yourself out there—opportunities come when you stay visible and consistent.”

How to Get Started:

• Identify Your Skills: Stick to what you’re good at, whether it’s email management, data entry, research, customer service, or social media.

• Learn the Basics: Master tools like Google Workspace, Trello, Asana, and Notion with free courses on Coursera, ALX Africa, or YouTube.

• Set Your Rates: VAs in Nigeria earn ₦80K₦468K/month (Glassdoor). Start low, gain experience, and charge what you’re worth.

• Find Your First Client: If needed, skip Fiverr and Upwork, network on Twitter and LinkedIn, and ask around. Referrals work magic.

• Create a Simple Portfolio: Show what you can do with sample emails, calendar schedules, or task management templates.

• Sign a Contract First: Protect yourself with a contract covering payment terms, tasks, availability, and confidentiality. No contract? Big red flag.

Bottom Line

Making money online as a student in Nigeria isn’t rocket science. Pick one skill, start learning today, stay consistent and put yourself out there. Nobody will hand you money for free, but if you put in the work, urgent 2k will never be your portion again.

ALSO READ: 5 Nigerians Open Up on How Relocation Has Shifted Their Financial Realities

About a year ago, five stand-up comedians—Timi Adetayo, Fejiro Omu, Eme-Uche Chidera, Okiki Aribigbola, and Kolamide—decided they wanted to create a show that would inform the public about the news while being entertaining and genuinely funny. It would blend acting, sketches, and fictional characters, leaning heavily into the conventions of American late-night talk shows like Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. However, rather than a direct imitation, their vision was closer to a Saturday Night Live-style performance—except not live. Not yet.

The show would be unapologetically Nigerian, tackling news with sharp humour while ensuring the facts remained intact.

Each of them took on specific roles: Eme reads the news, Fejiro anchors Amebo Corner, Kolamide handles the sports segment, Timi plays a fictional character called Dr. Arogundade, and Okiki and Fejiro co-host Corruption Forecast. They secured a sponsorship from Minimie, and they named it Minimie Presents: This Week Tonight.

Over the years, Nigeria has seen stand-up comedy shows, sketch series, and even fictional characters delivering the news. But in at least a decade, none have been as ambitious as theirs. They want to revive the late-night talk show format they grew up watching—one that moves away from tired caricatures of women and disabled people, shifting instead towards elevating discourse, provoking deep thought, and making Nigerians laugh while thinking critically.

In this week’s #MadeinNigeria, the cast talk about how they make the show, the future of Nigerian stand-up comedy, and the constant battle between facts and jokes.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

When did you begin to think of a show like this?

Kolamide: We are all comedians. We met at different points, but we all go to the same comedy clubs. The idea of doing something different had been floating around for a while. I had the idea years ago, and Eme had done something similar with a one-man show. It was really good, but it wasn’t sustainable to keep doing it by himself—writing, editing, and shooting. When I proposed the idea to him, he showed me what he had done, and we realized we needed more people on board. So, we spoke to Fejiro, Timi, and Okiki.

Timi and Fejiro came on but didn’t return the second time because there was no food.

Timi: That is not what happened.

Eme: When we started, we asked ourselves: What are we looking to achieve with this? Who is our target audience? What are we willing to say? How do we want to sound? We had a clear picture of what we wanted.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Eme-Uche Chidera A. (@eme_chidera)

Why did you decide to come on board?

Okiki: I was really interested in this idea, and I hope to do something like this someday. When Kolamide told me they wanted to onboard me, I had to say I needed to think about it, because I didn’t want to act too excited. But what I love about the show is that we have conversations that people don’t have online. We can penetrate the internet and discuss important issues. Some political stories don’t trend on social media, but they have real legislative impact. We make people aware of things that don’t always make it to mainstream media.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Okiki (@okiki_____)

ALSO READ: Emmanuella Samuel on Being a Child Star

What is the process of making an episode like?

Timi:  Our process is simple. Everyone on the team reads the news, collects stories, and shares them in our group chat. We also have calls almost every day.

Sometimes, the news itself is the joke because Nigeria is a funny place. Other times, we have to think on it for a while. It depends on the story and the context. We bounce ideas off each other and try to consider as many angles as possible so there’s little to no bias. We refine the material and eventually turn it into a script. If a story lends itself to a sketch, we craft one.

Then, we align and shoot. The cast members double as actors in some of the sketches. We also have a secret ingredient—but we won’t reveal that. Who does that?

It’s a lot of work, but it’s also very rewarding. As stand-up comedians, this is what we do.

Do you guys ever fight?

Fejiro: Eme and I are the ones who argue the most. Our biggest debate is always: “Is the news we’re reporting true? And is it funny?” Sometimes, in an attempt to be funny, you might want to distort facts. But facts aren’t always funny. That’s where our disagreements happen. But it’s good. If we were always on the same page, I don’t think we would have made as much progress.

The fact that we can disagree makes for a better show. The audience doesn’t necessarily share the same views as we do. So, it’s best if we give balanced reportage—we’re not leaning left or right; we’re somewhere in the middle.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fejiro PHAGE Omu (@the_phage)

Eme: The news is inherently boring and dangerous in Nigeria. Because of how polarized the country is, you have to know how to navigate those murky waters. We try not to pick sides. We just report the facts and make jokes from them rather than injecting personal opinions. At the same time, we didn’t want to be afraid to make the jokes. Is it funny? Is it true? Those are our guiding questions.

At the end of the day, we just want to be funny. We are not trying to be messiahs here, saving the country.

Okiki: Sometimes, you might say something funny that isn’t factual, but people understand that it’s a joke. However, we still prioritize reporting the facts because of what we’re trying to achieve.

The Nigerian standup scene has evolved from what it used to be, which is largely just throwing jabs at already marginalized people, to elevating discourse. How does this affect how you think about the show?

Kolamide: We knew that if we were going to do this, it had to be as authentic as possible. Comedy is about perspective. I grew up watching Night of a Thousand Laughs, but for me, it was just entertainment. When I started thinking seriously about comedy, I was drawn to Def Comedy Jam, All-Star Comedy, and comedians like Kevin Hart. But the person who really changed my perspective was Trevor Noah. He was African, yet he was talking about serious things and making them funny. He could joke about a governor, but in a subtle way—maybe making fun of his looks rather than policies. There was also the fear of being labelled or targeted. But Trevor talked about ethnic groups in South Africa in an intellectual way, and that really inspired me.

I try not just to make people laugh but to give them something to think about.

In the past, Nigerian comedy was shaped by what was accessible at the time—pastor jokes, soldier jokes, “e get one man” jokes. It worked then, but if we are still stuck in that cycle, we haven’t evolved. Comedy as an art is reactive. We don’t create anything new; we react to what has already happened.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kolamide (@kolamide_)

Timi: For a comedian who wants to have a strong voice and be remembered for their work, you need to have profound takes on social issues. Doing this every week builds that creative muscle. It forces us to find humour in things that, on the surface, aren’t funny.

Shows like Night of a Thousand Laughs had their place, and audiences enjoyed them. Those comedians weren’t trying to be philosophers; they were just trying to get laughs. When you go to a platform like that, you want to make your mark, and yabbing a popular person can do that for you.

But stand-up comedy should transcend just being funny. We, as comedians, have the job of holding up a mirror to society, pointing out hypocrisy. There are a lot of issues people think about but don’t have the courage to say. Our job is to say those things, make people laugh at them, and also make them think.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Timi Adetayo (@timi_adetayo)

Kolamide: Unfortunately, Nigeria has a copycat mentality. If something works, 17 people will do the same thing. Instead of asking, What are my strengths? we just follow trends. When I started, some people told me, “You dey speak English for your comedy? You never ready.”

But now, a new wave is coming. People are realizing that you can make comedy differently. It’s tough, but breaking new ground is better than being stuck in the past.

Eme: I will still make fun of Toke Makinwa if I have to, but I think it will just sound different.

Is this a hard show to make?

Eme: When the show is running, it’s tough because you have to keep up. It’s This Week Tonight, which means we have to know what’s happening all week before we shoot. If you miss a day, you have to catch up. But we enjoy it—my hairline is receding, but we enjoy it.

Where do you see the show in five years?

Fejiro: Kolamide, though—I don’t think he’ll still be in Nigeria in the next five years.

Ultimately, we hope to be a focal point for discussing social and economic issues in Nigeria. In other countries, late-night hosts bridge the gap between the political class and the middle class. We hope to be that. If you want the news in a way that will entertain you, we want to be your go-to show.

ALSO READ: CJ Obasi on What he Really Thinks of Nollywood

In Nigeria, birthdays are more than just personal annual milestones marked by cakes and heaping plates of rice. They are deeply cultural and often religious celebrations. Whether marked with a large party or a quiet gathering of friends, birthdays offer a wonderful opportunity to shower the celebrant with love, gifts, thoughtful birthday wishes, and heartfelt birthday messages.

“A simple ‘Happy birthday!’ message is okay o, but when someone takes the time to send a thoughtful message, it feels different,” says Ibk, a 28-year-old lawyer from Lagos. “It reminds you that you’re special to them.” Christiana, a 23-year-old marketing intern in Lagos, agrees. “I love receiving really heartfelt birthday messages; they make me feel like the main character of my day.”

In this article, we’ve compiled over 200 birthday messages from real Nigerians and included a step-by-step guide to help you craft your own heartfelt birthday wishes. Whether you need a message for a close friend, romantic partner, boss, colleague, or sibling, you’ll find the perfect words to celebrate their special day here.

READ ALSO: Good Morning Messages: How To Write the Perfect One & 200 Messages from Nigerians

How to Write the Perfect Birthday Wish for a Nigerian

If you struggle to send sweet birthday messages that resonate and don’t sound like they’re straight out of ChatGPT, this guide is for you. 

Step 1: Start with a warm greeting

Don’t just barge into their inbox with a generic birthday wish and an exclamation mark. Kick-off with a warm greeting and follow it up with a kind wish.

“When I’m wishing an older person a Happy birthday, I make sure I start with a greeting before they say I’m rude or disrespectful,” says Moyin, 22.

Example: 

“Happy birthday, sir! May today be filled with happiness for you.”

Step 2: Add a personal touch

Is this someone you’ve known for a long time? Sprinkle in some good memories or a call back to the years you have shared with them for a personal touch.

“I love weaving inside jokes into the birthday messages I send my friends,” says Amaka, 27. “It highlights how special our relationship is to me.”

Example: 

“Happy birthday, Chizzy! I can’t believe how grown up we are now. Here’s to more years celebrating together.”

Step 3: Include a blessing or prayer

A lot of Nigerians are deeply religious, so including a blessing or a prayer is a sure-fire way to warm their heart and let them know you wish them the  best on their special day.

“You must never exclude God from anything, especially when it comes to the blessing of seeing another year,” says Iyabo, 56. ”If you love someone, you pray for them so God can keep them till another birthday.”

Example: 

“Happy birthday, gurl! May God bless you and shower you with endless blessings.”

Step 4: Keep it light or add humour (Optional)

If you’re writing a birthday message to a friend or someone you’re very close to, feel free to add some light banter. Weave in an inside joke or a funny one-liner to make the celebrant laugh out loud when they read it.

“Me and my friends’ messages are full of constant back-and-forth banter,” says Feranmi, 19. ”Why won’t I include jokes in their birthday messages? It’s very important o.”

Example: 

“Happy birthday, my G! May the ATM never swallow your card, may they always have change for your 1k, and I pray your lane never has traffic. Have a good one!”

Step 5: Close with love and warmth

End your birthday message with a warm sign-off to add the perfect finishing touch.

“I truly believe people can feel your sincerity through your texts, even when they can’t see you,” says Grace, 29.

Example: 

“Happy birthday, babe. You’re a star through and through. Wishing you the most perfect day ever because you deserve it!”

A well-crafted birthday message should look like:

Happy birthday, bestie! We’ve come a long way from being those tiny JSS 1 students, haven’t we? May today be as bright and joyful as your heart. Wishing you love, success, and many more amazing years ahead!

200 Birthday Wishes From Real Nigerians

Now that you know what makes up a great birthday message, let’s get writing! In this section, you’ll find birthday messages that can inspire yours. From simple to heartfelt, here are several birthday messages you can send to your friends, family, coworkers and lovers.

Simple Birthday Wishes for Anyone

Best for: General use, acquaintances, and when you need a quick but heartfelt message.

If you’re ever in doubt when sending a birthday message, go the short-and-sweet route. Especially when you’re not very close to the person — like an acquaintance or a work colleague — a simple, well-meaning birthday wish should do the trick.

“I prefer to send a short, to-the-point birthday message when it’s for someone I don’t know well,” says Tolu, 26. “It’s polite, and it won’t be as if you’re famzing them.”

Check out these simple yet effective birthday messages to make your next birthday text the best.

• Happy birthday! Wishing you the best the year has to offer.

• Happy birthday, Daddy. I wish you a long and prosperous life

• Wishing you many happy returns on this special day. Happy birthday!

• Happy birthday, Chima. You’re such a superstar!

• Happy birthday, Ma. May God sustain you in good health of mind and body.

• Happy birthday! You’re amazing, and I’m beyond blessed to call you my friend.

• Wishing you an amazing year ahead. Happy birthday.

• Happy birthday to an amazing person. Have an amazing one!

• Cheers on celebrating a new year. Happy birthday.

• Sending you good wishes on your special day. Happy birthday.

• Another year of greatness unlocked! Wishing you a year full of happiness and prosperity.

• As you celebrate your new age, may God continue to bless and protect you.

• Cheers to another trip around the sun! Wishing you a fantastic birthday celebration.

• Wishing you a day as bright and beautiful as your smile. Happy birthday.

• Cheers to more life and more blessings! Wishing you a fantastic birthday.

• Happy birthday! May your year be filled with answered prayers and fulfilled dreams.

• Here’s to a new chapter! Wishing you a year filled with open doors and endless opportunities.

• Happy birthday! Wishing you a day as special as you are.

• Happy birthday! May you continue to age gracefully.

• Wishing you a Happy birthday. May God’s blessings overflow in your life this year.

• Happy birthday, friend. May Almighty God bless your new age.

READ ALSO: 13 Sweet Messages to Send Your Bro Without Making Things Weird

Romantic Birthday Wishes for a Significant Other

Best for: Boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife.

It’s expected that as someone’s significant other, your birthday message must leave everyone else’s in the dust. Sending a sweet message at the stroke of midnight will earn you points like you wouldn’t believe.

Tominsin, 28, says,” I look forward to my boyfriend’s wishes the most when my birthday comes around.”

So you see you have to come correct? Don’t worry we’ve curated this lovely selection of romantically charged messages for your favourite person.

• Happy birthday, my love! You make every day special, and today, I celebrate you with all my heart.

• To the most amazing partner—your love makes my world brighter. Wishing you a birthday as beautiful as you.

• My darling, you make my heart sing. Today is your birthday but you are God’s gift to us. I pray this year brings you opportunities you’ve only ever dreamed about.

• Happy birthday to the bone of my bone, my reason for breathing, my favourite person! I pray God showers you with even more blessings.

• Happy birthday, my love. May all the joy in the world be laid at your feet because you deserve it.

• Cheers to another birthday, my baby. Everyday I thank God for putting you on this earth and allowing me to experience you. 

• Happy birthday to the beat of my heart. Your laughter is my favourite sound and I pray that this new age you’re entering is filled with laughter and joy for the entire year.

• I remember when we met, and I knew instantly that you were special. Thank you for proving me right every single day with your amazing personality and immeasurable beauty. Happy birthday, my love.

• Happy birthday to the one who hung the moon in my sky. Thank you, baby, for all the things you do for our little family. There is no greater joy than waking up each morning to see your face.

• Happy birthday, my queen! I will count every speck of sand on all the beaches if it means you will be happy. I love seeing you smile, and I pray that God gives you uncountable reasons to smile as you grow older.

• Happy birthday, my husband. Holding your love in my heart is more precious than any gift I could ever give you. Still, I’m excited to shower you with all the gifts and love I can. Enjoy your special day!

• Happy birthday, baby! I’m so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. I wish you even more success and happiness as you age gracefully.

• Happy birthday, my darling. You look even more beautiful than you did the day we met. I pray that success continues to come easily to you. I’m so happy I get to do life with you.

• You stole my heart but you can keep it — it’s safest with a soul like yours. I can’t wait to see the amazing things you accomplish in your new age. Happy birthday onyinye’m.

• My love, I have tasted no other spirit as generous, wonderful and kind as yours. I’m grateful to God that I can stand by your side as you mark another trip around the sun. I will love you for as long as the earth spins. Happy birthday!

• Happy birthday to the groundnut to my banana, the pepper to my pepper soup and my favourite partner in crime. I pray this new year takes you to new heights. I’ll be right beside you every step of the way.

• On this special day, I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’re my everything, and I’m so grateful for you. I wouldn’t trade you for the world. Happy birthday, my love.

• Happy birthday to the man who makes my heart soar above the clouds. I pray God’s strength never leaves your side. I love you forever.

• Happy birthday! My admiration for you cannot be captured in words or in ink. Your beauty surpasses language, but I will keep trying to find the words to tell you just how much I love you.

• Cheers to another spin around the sun! My darling, my love for you is boundless. I pray that God continues to protect you and shield you. May His blessings and my love be with you always.

• Happy birthday, my love! I’m so grateful to have you as my wife. You are amazing, and I’m honoured to share this journey with you. On this special day, I want to remind you how much you mean to me. Your kindness, beauty, and love inspire me every day. Wishing you the very best, my dear!

Funny Birthday Wishes

Best for: Friends, siblings, and anyone who loves humour.

Don’t let your birthday wishes to your friends and those close to you be boring or dull. Add colour to your good wishes with humour and jokes. 

“If you don’t troll your friends, who will? Besides, those birthday messages that make you laugh are the best, in my opinion,” says Kelvin, 22.

Crack your friends’ ribs with these funny birthday messages.

• Happy birthday! May your hairline stay intact, your bank account grow, and your problems disappear!

• You’re not old, you’re just a classic! Wishing you a fantastic year ahead.

• Happy birthday! May God make your life soft like today’s bread this year.

• Those 30+ jokes are going to hit differently from now on, aren’t they? Happy birthday, old man .

• Age is just a number, but in your case, it’s a very high one. Don’t worry, you’re like fine wine, better with time .

• Happy birthday! May your days be as stress-free as a Lagos road during elections.

• On your special day, I pray your blessings continue to swell like garri. Happy birthday!

• Happy birthday! Don’t let anyone tell you you’re old o. You’re just well-seasoned, like party jollof.

• Happy birthday! You’re officially becoming a “Big Aunty.” Embrace it!

• Happy birthday, my guy, I hope you’re trying to get wiser as you’re getting older sha .

• Happy birthday, ore mi. You willingly eat semo so I pray that this year, God gives you good taste .

• Happy birthday! May they give you jara every time you buy suya.

• Happy womb escape, bro! Wishing you long life and prosperity.

• Cheers to your new age! Here’s to more quick naps in the club at 2 AM.

• Happy birthday, my G! Please, you’re not a vampire, so try and take more pictures this year, okay?

• Happy birthday, my g. Pick any country in the world that you want, I’ll buy it for you .

• Welcome to your new age! May the food at the owambe never finish before you arrive!

• Like a credit alert, you always bring a smile to my face. Wishing you a fantastic year filled with exploits.

• Happy birthday to the most beautiful girl in the world! Beyonce and Rihanna dey learn work .

• Happy birthday, chief. God go blow you breeze, He no go air you. Have a great one!

READ ALSO: DO you want to tell someone you miss them but you’re not sure how? Here are 20 Thoughtful “I Miss You” Messages for Your Long Distance Friends

Heartfelt Birthday Wishes

Best for: Close friends and loved ones.

Nothing warms the heart like a heartfelt birthday message from someone who loves you. Dare, 25,  says,” One of my friends is so good at writing heart-squeezing birthday messages that when I’m down — even months after — I go back and reread them, and they make me feel better.”

Bayo, 26, feels the same way about the messages from his grandma. “Though she passed away over a decade ago, I’ve kept all of my grandmother’s handwritten birthday notes to me, and I still read them every year,” he says.

Your heartfelt message can be long or short, depending on how well you know the person and their personal preferences. A good heartfelt wish can warm the heart for a long time. Take a leaf from our book and use this to create the perfect heartfelt message for your loved ones.

• Happy birthday! May this new year bring you closer to your dreams and fill your life with purpose and joy.

• You have a heart of gold. Wishing you all the happiness in the world today!

• Happy birthday, my mentor. Learning from you has been an amazing experience. May God bless you exceedingly this year.

• You are such an incredible person. Wishing you an amazing birthday bursting with joy, love and happiness.

• I’m so grateful to God for your existence. There has been no day that has passed that you haven’t put a smile on my face. I pray God fills your cup with joy all year. Happy birthday.

• I appreciate everything you do for us and our family, bro. There aren’t enough thanks in the world to express the depth of my gratitude. I wish you the happiest birthday!

• Wishing you a birthday as beautiful as your spirit. May this year bring you peace, love, and countless reasons to celebrate.

• Happy birthday to the bravest, most resilient person I know. May the year unfold before you with ease.

• Happy birthday! May laughter come easy to your lips, may sleep come easily to your eyes and may God continue to crown your efforts with glory.

• Cheers to a new age! May God bless you, keep you and make his face shine upon you this year.

• Happy birthday! Wishing you success that makes all the years of your hard work worth it! 

• Happy birthday, big boy! I’m so proud of you and how much you’ve grown. I can’t wait to see what you do this year!

• Happy birthday, my person! Ever since the first day we met, I knew our friendship was something special. I pray you continue to meet success at every point of your journey this year.

• Happy birthday! You are such a blessing to our family! We wish you long life and prosperity.

• On your special day, I pray that God blesses you with health, happiness, and all the desires of your heart.

• Happy birthday! May your heart be filled with gratitude and your life with abundance. You deserve all the good things coming your way.

• Happy birthday, my dear. Watching how hard you’ve worked to get to where you are is nothing short of inspiring! I’m wishing you the best of the year and those to come!

• Happy birthday! May your heart be filled with joy and your life with endless blessings. You deserve all the happiness in the world.

• Happy birthday! I love you so much! You always put a smile on my face, and I pray happiness is always within your reach this year.

• Happy birthday, star girl. As you are a joy to those around you, I pray God also fills your life with boundless joy.

• Happy birthday! May your day be as bright as your smile and as warm as your heart. You are a blessing to everyone around you.

READ ALSO: 100 Deep Relationship Quotes That’ll Make Them Burn For You in 2025

Inspirational Birthday Wishes

Best for: Friends, colleagues, mentors, and anyone needing encouragement.

Birthday messages can also inspire someone who needs encouragement. They can keep you motivated and are perfect for cheering on a friend, colleague, or mentor to take on any challenges they face.
“There are some birthday messages you receive that make you want to get right back to work because of how much the sender believes in you,” says Jola, 25.

Use any of these messages to inspire and motivate someone close to you on their next birthday!

• May your birthday mark the beginning of a fulfilling and successful year ahead!

• Wishing you strength, wisdom, and all the blessings you deserve in this new chapter.

• Happy birthday to the hardest worker I know! May all your efforts be crowned with success.

• I admire your work ethic so much! Wishing you the creme de la creme of the year!

• As you begin to see the fruits of your labour these past few years, I pray that your hard work continues to be rewarded.

• Happy birthday! Your efforts will never go to waste, and I want you to know that the team appreciates you so much!

• What would we have done if you weren’t there when times were tough? I shudder to think about it. I am grateful that we have you in our corner. Wishing you the happiest birthday!

• Your work on the last project confirmed to me that you are destined to be a household name! Wishing you all the best on your birthday.

• Happy birthday to the most amazing woman. There is nothing you can’t accomplish!

• Happy birthday, dear! It’s so amazing that this isn’t even your final form! Wishing you a year filled with exploits and success.

• Cheers on your special day! As you continue to push the standard with your amazing ideas, I pray God continues to bless you and take you higher.

• Happy birthday to you. You are an inspiration to everyone around you, and I am so lucky to know you and learn from you. May the year be filled with joy and prosperity for you.

• Wishing you a long happy life on your birthday. The world has been waiting for someone just like you to change it!

• On your special day, remember that every challenge you’ve faced has made you stronger. Keep pushing forward — your best is yet to come!

• Happy birthday, superstar! The sky isn’t your limit — it’s your starting point!

• Happy birthday! Watching you face and defeat every obstacle in your path has been nothing short of inspirational. Wishing  you even more success this year.

• Happy birthday and congratulations on yet another feather in your cap! May God continue to make exploits easy for you.

• On your special day, I thank you for being an inspiration and a beacon of light to everyone around you. Happy birthday.

• Cheers to a new age! May your work continue to place you on a global stage. I wish you success this year.

• Happy birthday, boss. Your passion for what you do is nothing short of inspirational. I pray that God continues to bless you and your family this year.

• Happy balloon day! May you continue to be celebrated by those around you.

Have you read this?: 15 of The Sweetest Good Morning Messages For Long Distance Relationships

Milestone Birthday Wishes (18, 21, 30, 40, 50, etc.)

Best for: Celebrating major birthdays.

Nigerians take milestone birthdays very seriously, so carefully crafting a birthday message they’ll love is of utmost importance. Landmark ages like 18, 21, 30, and 40 are the perfect opportunity to celebrate the life of the celebrant and how far they’ve come.

“My 30th birthday was an eye-opening one,” says Dami, 31. ”The messages my friends sent me touched my heart and made turning thirty a little less scary for me.”

Take a look at this selection of milestone birthday messages that are sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who receives them.

• Welcome to your thirtieth! May this decade be your best yet.

• Happy fiftieth! Wishing you even more joy, success, and wisdom in the years ahead.

• Welcome to the fourth floor! May this new decade be filled with joy and happiness for you.

• Happy eightieth birthday, grandma! Yours is a life well-lived, and I praise God for you. Here’s to even more years of love and laughter.

• Happy twentieth birthday! May this decade be full of discovery, growth, and unforgettable memories.

• Happy birthday, sis! You’re finally an adult! May your eighteenth year be full of laughter and adventure.

• Happy fortieth birthday. May God continue to see you through every year of your life.

• It is said that as wine ages, it becomes better. I wish you even better success and happiness on your fortieth birthday.

• Happy golden jubilee to the most amazing aunt there is! I pray you see another fifty years on this earth with us. I love you.

• As you step into the world of adulthood on your eighteenth birthday, I pray God gives you the wisdom to make the best choices.

• Welcome to a new decade! There is always time to accomplish something amazing. I pray your 30s bring you all the joy and success you desire.

• Happy birthday to an amazing mentor. You have used your forty years of life to inspire and motivate everyone around you. I pray God blesses and regards you.

• Happy thirtieth birthday, sis! I promise you the best is yet to come because you deserve it. 

• I wish you the best on your sixtieth birthday, sir. May God continue to bless and strengthen you as you grow older.

• Happy birthday, Grandma! On your seventieth birthday, I pray God continues to bless you and be your shield.

• Happy thirtieth birthday! This is going to be the beginning of an amazing era for an amazing person.

• Cheers on turning 21! Now, you can drink alcohol in every country in the world!

• On your seventieth birthday, I wish you the best of the year and the softest of landings.

• Happy twentieth anniversary of your twentieth birthday! I pray that your hands never weaken at work and your mind is always open to new creative ideas.

• Happy 30th birthday! Welcome to the club where confidence meets wisdom. Your best years are just beginning!

Birthday Wishes for Friends

Best for: Close friendships, best friends, and people who have been there for you.

A heartfelt birthday message for your friend can truly deepen your bond with them, especially if you gain a reputation for remembering birthdays. 

“My best friend has sent me a birthday message every birthday at midnight for the last six years,” says Dami. 28. ”I wouldn’t trade her for the world.”

Take a look at these messages and use one or two to delight your friends on their birthdays.

• Happy birthday, bestie! Life wouldn’t be the same without you. I love you more than I can put into words.

• Another year older, wiser, and still as amazing as ever. Wishing you all the best!

• Happy birthday, bestie. Every version of the universe without you is a desolate, colourless place. I am so happy that we get to do life together.

• Happy birthday to the piece that makes my life make sense. May this year be full of untold joy for you.

• Happy birthday, my G! I see how hard you’ve been working, and I pray that God rewards every effort you have put into your work.

• Cheers to the most amazing gal in the world. You are the five to my six, and I cannot wait to celebrate even more years with you.

• Happy birthday, my darling friend. I am so lucky to know you, and I pray that God grants you all your heart’s desires.

• Happy birthday to my BFF. No distance, no depth is wide or deep enough to separate us. Here’s to another amazing year.

• All 30+ people stand up! That includes you now, o! It’s been so wonderful watching you grow into the amazing person you have become today. May God continue to bless you.

• Happy birthday, ore mi! You are a star! And I pray that the whole world gets to see you shine this year.

• Happy birthday to the absolute life of the party. I pray we share even more good times together.

• Happy birthday, my G! Where the oblee dey happen? May joy never be far from your mouth and may God keep your heart soft.

• From secondary school until now, you have been the best friend a girl could ever ask for. I pray that God surprises you with the amount of blessings you receive this year.

• There is not a single person as unique and loveable as you are. On your birthday, I wish you the very best because no one is more deserving.

• Happy birthday to the kindest of souls. I pray that people gather to celebrate with you this new year.

• Happy birthday, my personal person! You are so important to me, and you deserve the world. May this year be full of ease and happiness for you, in Jesus’ name.

• Felicitations to the baddest bih! May God bless you and keep you for me.

• Special birthday wishes to the best friend a girl could ask for. I pray we spend more happy years together.

• Happy birthday, my darling. You are proof that great things come in the craziest packages. Thank you for being the piece that completes me.

• Happy birthday, bestie! Thank you for being my safe space, my happy place, and my everything. Love you forever!

• Happy birthday to my favourite human! Your friendship is evidence of God’s love for me. May your path always be clear, and may good things come to you with ease.

• Cheers to your new age, my dear friend! May this year overflow with success and happiness.

• It’s my favourite day of the year—your birthday! I pray that God satisfies every need you have, grants you peace, and keeps you so we can celebrate even more years together.

• Happy birthday to my bestie! You deserve everything good, and I pray God brings all of it and more to your doorstep this year.

• Happy birthday to my partner in fun! May God bless you and keep you. I pray your cup overflows with joy this year. I love you!

READ THIS TOO: 30 End-of-Year Messages for Your Lover, Family, and Friends

Birthday Wishes for Family Members 

Best for: Family members like parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters

Family is truly everything. They are the first people you socialise, fight and celebrate with. Sending a thoughtful message to your family members on their birthdays will keep that blood bond tight and put a well-deserved smile on their faces.

“I’m not much of a birthday guy, but when my little sister sends me birthday messages, my day lights up,” says Tola. “I sacrificed a lot to provide for my family after my father passed, and it always feels really good to be appreciated.”

Happy birthday Messages for Your Mom and Aunt

• Happy birthday, Mom! Thank you for your endless love and sacrifices—I celebrate you today and always.

• Happy birthday to the most extraordinary woman in my life. You’re indeed my greatest blessing and I’m grateful for the gift of you. Thank you for all the sacrifices you’ve made just to see a better version of us. May this milestone year bring you endless joy, good health and all the love you deserve.

• Happy birthday, Mummy. Your resilience and tenacity make you the best role model I’ve ever had! I pray God continues to bless and keep you.

• Happy birthday to the most amazing woman on earth! I love you so much, Aunty.

• Happy birthday, Mom! I have never known a world without your gentle spirit and for that, I will always be grateful. Thank you for inspiring all of us.

• Cheers on your special day, Mama! Your light shines on everything with a warm glow. I am so lucky to call you mother, and I’m wishing you the best day ever!

• Happy birthday to an amazing aunt and an incredible woman! On your special day, I want to celebrate the love, care, and guidance you’ve brought into my life. May this year be filled with joy, laughter, and all your heart’s desires.

Happy birthday Messages for Your Dad and Uncle

• Happy birthday, Dad! Thank you for every sacrifice you’ve made for our family. I pray we make you proud and that God blesses you this year.

• Special greetings to you on your birthday, Uncle. Thank you for being a rock and for the unforgettable memories.

• Happy Golden Jubilee, Dad! It has been an honour to grow up with you. Thank you for being amazing.

• Happy birthday to my favourite Uncle! You are a wonderful person and I pray God rewards all your actions.

• Happy birthday to the best dad in the world. Words are not enough to express how much I love you.

Happy birthday Messages for Your Brother and Sister

• Happy birthday, lil bro. I can’t believe it was just yesterday Mom brought a tiny bundle back from the hospital. I’m so proud of the young man you’re becoming. May God bless you for me.

• Happy birthday to my favourite sister! I celebrate your amazing hard work as you clock a new age. God bless you.

• To my amazing sister, Happy birthday! May this year bring you laughter, love, and all the success you desire.

• Happy birthday, egbon mi. You are a big inspiration to me. I pray God continues to bless you and all you lay your hands on. Have an amazing day.

• Happy birthday to the most beautiful troublemaker in the world! You are the best sister a person could ask for, and I’m so happy we are related. God bless you. Send me birthday outfit pics!

Looking for more birthday messages? Check out these heartfelt options for your sister and brother. 

Happy birthday Messages for Your Niece and Nephew

• Happy birthday to my favourite member of this family. Our world changed for the better when you were born, and I’m so happy with the person you’re becoming. Have a blessed year.

• To my favourite niece, on her birthday, I wish you the best of the year and wisdom that surpasses all understanding.

• Happy birthday, little tiger! You are made up of all the best parts of your parents. I pray that you become successful, strong and blessed. Have a lovely one.

• Happy birthday, princess! You are the apple of all our eyes, and I pray you never forget how loved you are here. Have a wonderful birthday today!

• Happy birthday, my dear. I love how much you have changed in these short few years. I pray for even more evolutions and greater happiness for you.

• Happy birthday to my precious nephew. On your special day, I pray Almighty Allah continues to protect and guide you, bless you with great wisdom, knowledge and understanding from above.

Birthday Wishes for Coworkers or Managers

Best for: Workplace relationships and maintaining professional warmth.

Whether you work a 9-to-5 or remotely, acknowledging and celebrating your colleagues’ birthdays is important. It not only opens the door to friendships you may not have discovered but also helps teams bond and work more seamlessly.

“It’s nice to feel seen,” says Molayo, 25. “Sometimes, you can feel like a small cog in a really big machine. These birthday messages humanise us—that’s why I like them.”

Here are some great options you can drop on that Slack thread or send to them directly:

• Wishing you a fantastic birthday! May this year bring you new achievements and great success.

• Happy birthday! Hope you have a wonderful day and a great year ahead.

• Happy birthday! You’re an inspirational and exemplary leader. Enjoy your special day!

• Happy birthday, you legend! Wishing you more promotions and accomplishments on your special day!

• Happy cake day! Thank you for being a light at the office.

• Happy birthday, Ma. You are an inspiration to every young woman working hard in this company. May God continue to bless you.

• Happy birthday to an icon. The work you do here is very special, and we appreciate you.

• Happy birthday, boos! Your clarity of vision is an inspiration to the whole team. Have a blessed day ahead.

• Happy birthday to the most versatile worker on the team! We appreciate you.

• Happy birthday to an excellent worker. I hope you have the best birthday ever and your zeal for excellence never diminishes.

• Cheers to your new age. May God grant you even more wisdom and success.

• Wishing you a birthday filled with celebration and a year full of success. Happy birthday!

• Happy birthday! Thank you for your guidance and support. Enjoy your special day!

• Hope your birthday is as rewarding as the effort you put into leading our team. You inspire me to be better at my work.

• Happy birthday! Wishing you a day of relaxation and a year of great accomplishments.

• Wishing you the best of the year and beyond! Happy birthday, dear.

• Happy birthday, desk bestie! I pray that God blesses you exceedingly this year.

• Happy birthday to the best colleague a girl could ask for. Wishing you the best possible year ahead. Lunch is on me today.

• Happiest birthday wishes to a hardworking and kind soul. I pray success finds you as easily as you find solutions at work.

• Congratulations on your new age! God bless you and promote you to positions you’ve only ever dreamed of.

Belated Birthday Wishes

Best for: When you forgot to send a message on time but still want to acknowledge the day.

Few things feel worse than forgetting the birthday of someone special to you. But no matter the reason, it’s never too late to reach out. That’s why we’ve curated a selection of thoughtful messages you can send to express your birthday wishes and make up for missing their big day.

“I was working back-to-back shifts after long classes, and I forgot my older sister’s birthday,” says Busola, 24. “I felt so bad. Thankfully, she forgave me after I messaged her and explained myself.”

• I may be late, but my wishes for you are still the same: happiness, success, and all the best! Happy birthday.

• Happy belated birthday wishes. The day got away from me but the love I have for you never will. Hope your day was fantastic!

• Happy belated birthday! Hope your special day was filled with joy.

• I can’t believe I missed your birthday! Please, forgive me and know that I’m celebrating you today. Happy belated birthday, dear!

• I’m so sorry I missed your special day! Nevertheless, I’m wishing you best of the year and more blessings! Happy belated birthday and lots of love. Hope it was amazing.

• I’m late to the party, but my wishes for you are just as heartfelt. Happy belated birthday, my friend!

• Belated birthday hugs and wishes coming your way! I hope your day was as special as you are.

• I missed the date, but I refuse to miss the chance to tell you how much you mean to me. Happy belated birthday!

• Sorry for the late wishes, but I hope your birthday was as incredible as you are. Happy belated birthday.

• Sorry for the belated wishes, but I hope your birthday was filled with love and happiness. Happy belated birthday.

• Happy belated birthday, Ma. May God bless you and always be with you.

• Sending you the best belated birthday wishes a day after. This doesn’t mean you are any less special to me. I’m praying for all the happiness in the world to be delivered to you!

• I missed your birthday, but I’m making up for it with extra love and prayers today. Happy belated birthday!

• My deepest apologies for missing your birthday yesterday. There’s no valid excuse for not celebrating a star like you. I’m wishing you the coolest and most wonderful belated birthday.

• Belated birthday wishes to the love of my life. I hope your day was as amazing as you always are.

• I’m so sorry I’m late, but my heart is always with you. Happy belated birthday, my love!

• So sorry I missed your big day, my dear! Happy birthday to you! May your heart always lead you to the right path. Remain blessed.

• Belated birthday wishes to you, my dear friend. I hope your day was as wonderful as you make my life.

We can’t overemphasize the importance of the right birthday messages. They not only light up the heart of the celebrant but also serve as a written testament that you care about them.

Never feel stuck again! Use any of the messages in this article as inspiration to make someone’s birthday special and even more memorable.

6 Questions about Birthday Wishes Nigerians Have

1. How can I send a birthday wish?

You can send birthday wishes through various platforms. What truly matters is that the celebrant reads your message and feels your appreciation. 

Share your wishes on platforms they use regularly, such as Instagram, Facebook, Slack (for coworkers), WhatsApp, Snapchat, or X. After all, there’s no point in sending a message on Snapchat if they only open it once a year during Detty December.

For a thoughtful touch, consider delivering a handwritten letter or birthday card. The old-fashioned approach often earns many heartfelt “aww”s.

2. How long should a birthday wish be?

The length depends on your relationship with the celebrant. Short, sweet wishes are perfect for acquaintances or coworkers, maintaining a polite distance. However, if you send a one-liner to your partner, you might end up trending on Instablog — and deservedly so.

Save longer, heartfelt messages for family, close friends, or significant others. That said, a meaningful message doesn’t need to read like a novel. You can express your feelings without making the message a chore to read.

3. Who should you send a birthday wish to?

There’s no rule limiting who deserves birthday messages. While it’s understandable to skip your enemies, you can still send warm wishes to internet friends and acquaintances.

In Nigeria, it’s common to send heartfelt messages to family and friends, but acknowledging colleagues, mentors, managers, and bosses is also polite. Even a brief, cordial wish can brighten someone’s day.

4. What makes a birthday wish special?

A truly special birthday wish highlights what you appreciate about the person, whether it’s their hard work, kindness, or your shared memories. Adding personal touches such as prayers, inside jokes, or unique well-wishes makes your message memorable and heartfelt.

5. Should you send a birthday wish every year?

Yes, o! Birthdays come once a year, and those closest to you — family, friends, and partners — will expect your wishes annually.

For acquaintances or former coworkers, a birthday message is thoughtful but not required. Overwhelmed because they’re popular? Don’t stress. One sincere message is enough. Just don’t double-text them paragraphs in the name of birthday wishes.

6. What should you avoid when sending a birthday wish?

Even though most birthday wishes are appreciated, some blunders should be avoided at all costs:

• Don’t lecture: It’s their birthday, not an evaluation session.

• Avoid offensive jokes: Humor should be lighthearted, not hurtful. Never joke about sensitive topics like family losses.

• No shouting in all caps: You’re not Odumodu, calm down.

• Spell their name correctly: Nothing ruins a wish like “Happy Birthday, Chinamza” instead of “Chinasa.”

• Put effort into it: “HBD, WULLP” won’t cut it. Use one of our simple birthday message templates instead.

• Don’t compare their birthday to others: Let them enjoy their special moment without comparisons.

If you don’t know what message to write for your Valentine, we’ve got you covered. See this article about 50 of The Sweetest Valentine Messages for Those You Care About.

Every week, Zikoko seeks to understand how people move the Naira in and out of their lives. Some stories will be struggle-ish, others will be bougie. All the time, it’ll be revealing.

Your all-in-one money manager, Moniger, helps you to save money, manage your subscriptions, and track your expenses. Download the app and get started today!

When did you first realise the importance of money?

2004, when I got into university. A decent meal cost between ₦300 – ₦500 in those days, and ₦1k meant I could go out, have fun, and eat. But I was in an environment where most people couldn’t afford that. 

Watching how other people managed the little they had made me realise the value of money in a way I never had to think about before. 

I assume this means there was money growing up

My parents were lecturers, and we had all the nice things. You could say we were upper middle class. My dad often flew around the country for work, and I remember my first time on a plane was for one of such trips. 

My allowance in uni was generous enough to cover most of my needs. It started at ₦10k/month and grew to ₦30k by the time I left uni in 2008. My allowance continued after uni — usually between ₦40k and ₦50k — until 2015. I’m not exactly sure why the allowance ended. It just ended. 

After uni, I bounced around a lot, from NYSC in 2010 to trying out postgraduate studies between 2011 and 2014. I dropped out halfway because I realised it was an absolute waste of time. In 2014, I started a car registration and document renewal hustle. 

How did that happen?

I drove my parents’ car around for errands and my job was to make sure documents like insurance papers, roadworthiness, and the like were intact to avoid police wahala or having to bribe them. That’s where the idea came from.

I started by renewing my parents’ papers. Then, I extended the service to family and friends. I charged ₦1k per document because it comfortably covered my transport fare to the registration office. 

I made between ₦5k – ₦7k weekly. I continued these runs even when I landed my first full-time job in 2016 and stuck with it until 2019. 

Tell me about that first job

I worked as a financial analyst at a business publication, writing about the economy, crypto, and the stock market. My starting salary was ₦60k/month, which grew to ₦120k by 2019 when I left the company. In addition to the pay, I also received bonuses and extra allowances whenever I travelled for work.

After I left the job, I had a three-month stint as a financial analyst at a fintech company, where my salary jumped to ₦300k. I left because the person who hired me moved elsewhere, and I followed them. 

Better pay?

No, my role and salary remained the same. The new place was a financial services firm, and I put on more hats. I did everything from writing to financial advisory. Because of my job, I was exposed to multiple resources that taught me how to understand the financial market. I learned to look at money from different angles, apply the knowledge to my finances, and educate others. 

By the time I left in October 2024, my salary had grown to ₦450k plus extra ₦200k – ₦300k in bonuses annually. Also, I’d learnt enough to offer financial advisory as a self-employed analyst and had started building my own startup. 

Interesting. How’s that working out?

Financial advisory is what pays my bills right now. I offer one-on-one sessions to clients who want to know how to make their money work for them. I typically charge between ₦50k – 100k/year per client, which covers about four or five calls. Then, I create a financial plan they can execute, including investment advice, and check in two or three times within a year.

I get up to five clients monthly. I’m fairly visible on social media, so I get clients from there. I also get a lot of referrals from family and friends. I currently have 32 clients on my roster, but I don’t get paid at the same time, so my monthly income averages between ₦500k – ₦1m. Sometimes it’s less.

How about your startup?

The startup’s value proposition is providing stock market and crypto research to Nigerians and Africans who need this information to make market and investment decisions. I’ve noticed there’s a gap in the market on data like this. 

Many young Nigerians are increasingly investing in crypto and the stock market, but few resources explain these markets in a way that almost everyone can understand. So, I’ll do that for a fee. 

It’s still in development, so I don’t expect to make money from it for about two years. Right now, I just want to get as much social media attention as possible. Then, I can start thinking about profitability.  

So, you provide investment advice. What’s your own investment strategy like?

I primarily invest in naira and dollar stocks, as well as crypto and treasury bills. Crypto has been my most profitable investment channel. 

Could you break it down?

I invested $500 in Bitcoin when it was $10k in 2019. I sold my holdings in December 2024  — Bitcoin was now worth $100k, and I made about ₦8m from that sale. Then, I dumped the money in treasury bills. 

I still have some other coins in my portfolio. There’s 0.5 BNB, which I bought at $20 in 2019 and is now worth over $300. Then I got one Solana at $60 in 2023, which is now worth $190. I also bought $1k worth of Ethereum last year when it was around $3k. I’ll probably sell it when it reaches $6k.

Then, there are small amounts in a few coins, but these three coins are my current major crypto holdings. 

I should mention that I’ve also lost money in crypto. In 2020, I bought LUNA and some other “worthless coins” and lost $1k when they crashed. I also lost money on a crypto exchange that got hacked. So, it’s not all good news.  

The rest of my investments — the bulk of them— are in stocks and dollar investments.

Tell me about them

I’ll break it down into dollar and naira assets. 

I have about $4400 in stocks, exchange-traded funds, real estate and fixed-income assets divided across different investment platforms, which I’ve been building monthly since 2019. Then, I have $1k cash at hand.

My naira assets include about ₦11 million invested in Nigerian stocks, mutual funds, and treasury bills. I also bought a piece of land for ₦2.5m last year.  

I use a financial management app called Moniger to manage my cash, set a monthly budget, and track my expenses. I linked all my bank accounts so I can see all my transactions on Moniger’s dashboard and easily detect when I’m going overboard. 

I still use my trusted Excel sheet to track my investments and assets, but this app has been helpful for budgeting and day-to-day expenses. 

ALSO READ: I’m 22, and This Is How I Grew My Money by 29% in 2024

Speaking of budgeting, what does your typical month in expenses look like?

I’ve been self-employed since October 2024, so I’ve reduced my expenses to the barest minimum. Fortunately, I live in a family house, so I don’t pay rent. I also pay for a yearly internet bundle, so that’s ₦200k for my two internet service providers.

What kind of life would you say your income affords you?

Honestly, I feel poor. You might say I’ve made money over the years, but that’s because of my privilege. If I were paying rent, I wouldn’t have had the leeway to invest and build my portfolio the way I have.

Between 2019 – 2022, I invested half of my monthly salary and still had enough to live comfortably. But since our president arrived, the cost of everything has gone up, and I can no longer do that. Now, I can only manage to invest about 10% of my monthly income.

My net worth is around ₦20m, but I’d need 5x the number to live the kind of lifestyle I want. For instance, I’d like to buy a 2018, 2020 or 2022 Mercedes GLE SUV, and that would cost about ₦80m – ₦100m. Even if I gather all my money and hustle, I can’t afford that car. 

Also, a car I could’ve gotten for ₦4.5m last year jumped to ₦10m – ₦15m after the naira devaluation.

Besides cars, I’d like to travel a bit more, which is also expensive. I visited a West African country twice last year and hope to do the same this year. It’ll probably set me back like ₦1.5m to visit now.

Out of curiosity, do you think you’ll ever return to a 9-5?

Never ever. My thinking after leaving my job was to get another one at a bigger firm abroad. But foreign employers don’t want to hire Nigerians if you don’t live in the US or the UK. So, when that didn’t work out, I decided to do my own thing. Plus, I’ve realised that self-employment will be more profitable in the long run. 

The average finance person earns between ₦450k – ₦3m monthly. I can make that in a month. In five years’ time, I’ll have built a company I can sell for a million dollars and turn my finances around. There’s no way my five-year salary at a 9-5 would be up to $1m, except it’s a job at JP Morgan. Besides that, I’m not interested.

What was the last thing you spent money on that required serious planning?

I recently supported a sibling who relocated last year. I saved for a few months and liquidated some of my investments to give them ₦1m in batches of ₦350k and ₦650k. 

It wasn’t really expensive, but it took some months of planning because I was still earning ₦450k and couldn’t live on half my salary. 

How would you rate your financial happiness on a scale of 1-10?

4. I’ve been blessed to work with companies that trained me pretty well and gave me the knowledge I use for investment today. I’m financially literate, but I also feel very poor. My cost of living has doubled because of this government, and it’s more than a little annoying.

Find all the past Naira Life stories here.

Every year, Harmattan arrives in full force to humble us all. Your lips will be cracked, your skin will be ashy, and the air will be drier than your ex’s text replies. But just how Nigerian are your harmattan struggles?

Take this quiz to find out!

I know you love Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Her books hit differently. But have you ever wondered which of her iconic characters you’re most like? Find out in this quiz.

Think you’re up to date with Nigeria’s current affairs? From political leaders and historical moments to key decisions shaping the country, this quiz will test how well you know Nigeria’s political landscape. Let’s see how well you really know Nigeria’s current affairs!

Who is the current Vice President of Nigeria?

Godswill Akpabio

Kashim Shettima

Habeeb Okikiola

Kashim Shettima is Nigeria’s 15th Vice President, and he takes over from Yemi Osinbajo who served as Muhammadu Buhari’s vice. Shettima was born on September 2, 1966 in Borno State. Before he became Nigeria’s Vice President in 2023, he was a businessman and a banker, a former governor of Borno State (2011 to 2019), and a Senator representing Borno Central (2019 to 2023).

What does the green in Nigeria’s flag stand for?

Agriculture

Natural wealth

Forest reserves

The answer is natural wealth. Fun fact: The creator of the Nigerian flag, whose name you’ll have to remember in a few questions, said the symbolism of the flag was inspired by his travels across Nigeria in his younger years.

What Nigerian State bears the slogan ‘Centre of Excellence?’

Oyo State

Enugu State

Lagos State

It’s Lagos State. Created in 1967, Lagos was once Nigeria’s capital and even though that is no longer the case, the state is currently referred to as the commercial capital of Nigeria, due to its role as the nerve centre of economic activities in the country. It is also one of the highest revenue-generating states in the country.

When does Nigeria celebrate its democracy day?

June 12

May 29

October 1

It’s June 12. We’ll cut you some slack if you picked May 29, as that was Nigeria’s Democracy Day until 2018, when former President Muhammadu Buhari signed a law changing the date to June 12 in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola, who was presumed to have won the annulled June 12, 1993, election — Nigeria’s first election after the 1983 military coup.

Who was the designer of the Nigerian flag?

Ojo Michael

Taiwo Akinkunmi

Moshood Abiola

It’s Taiwo Akinkumi. Nigeria’s simple yet highly symbolic flag was created by the late Akinkumi in 1959 for a flag design competition ahead of Nigeria’s independence from Britain. A 23-year-old student at the time, he went on to win the competition, which has continued to serve as a national symbol for Nigeria.

How old are Nigeria’s youngest states?

25

29

32

It’s 29. Nigeria had only 30 states up until 1996, when six additional states were created. The states are Bayelsa, Ebonyi Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, and Zamfara.

What prominent Nigerian was Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in Literature?

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Cyprian Ekwensi

Wole Soyinka

It’s Wole Soyinka. Born in 1934, Soyinka became Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in Literature when he won the prize in 1986. Soyinka didn’t just become a legend for his brilliant writing; he was also a social critic and activist who was imprisoned, exiled, and nearly assassinated several times during Nigeria’s military rule.

How many female Senators does Nigeria currently have?

4

12

16

The answer is four. Nigeria currently has only four out of the 109 seats in the Senate occupied by women, the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa.

What prominent Nigerian is on the 500 Naira note?

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Olusegun Obasanjo

Namadi Sambo

The answer is Nnamdi Azikiwe. Not only was Azikiwe the first president of Nigeria after independence, he is considered one of Nigeria’s founding fathers because of his commitment to Nigeria’s freedom. Now, say thank you Nnamdi.

What is Muhammadu Buhari’s State of origin?

Benue

Katsina

Kogi

Nigeria’s immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, is from Daura in Katsina State. Since the end of his tenure in 2023, Buhari has retired to his home town, where he is often visited by big names in Nigerian politics. Also, if you think Nigeria was hard under Buhari, he says to tell you it tired him out too; the former president has described leading a country like Nigeria as “one of the hardest challenges in life.” Welp!

Which of the following is an oil-producing state in Nigeria?

Kwara State

Bayelsa State

Lagos State

The answer is Bayelsa. Not only is it an oil producing state, it is also home to Oloibiri, the place where oil was first discovered in Nigeria in the year 1956.

Which Nigerian President died in office?

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Umaru Musa Yar’Adua

Shehu Shagari

The answer is Musa Yar’Adua. The former President was born in 1951 and died in May 2010, three years after he was elected into office. He was replaced by his vice, Goodluck Jonathan, who also became President after he served out Yar’Adua’s term.

How many terms can House of Assembly members serve?

One term

Two terms

Forever

Bet you didn’t see it coming, but the correct answer is forever. Members of the Senate and House of Representatives are entitled to four-year terms, after which they partake in elections, but unlike governors and presidents who must vacate their seats after a maximum of two terms (eight years), National Assembly members get to retain their seats provided they get reelected.

Who was Nigeria’s Vice President under Olusegun Obasanjo?

Atiku Abubakar

Namadi Sambo

Yemi Osinbajo

Atiku Abubarkar served as Obasanjo’s vice from 1999 to 2007. Since the end of his tenure in 2007, he has remained active in Nigerian politics and has contested in Presidential elections since then. He’s also a little savage when he needs to be — Just last year, he called President Tinubu T Pain for making life difficult and expensive for Nigerians.

What is the longest a Nigerian lawmaker has been in office?

26 years

33 years

18 years

The answer is 33 years, and the lawmaker is 59-year-old Ali Ndume, representing Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency of Kano State. He was first elected in 1992, briefly left to serve as a political aide to an ex-Kano governor, and has been back since 2007. The second longest-serving Senator is Ahmad Lawan, who was first elected in 1999 and has never left. If you didn’t get this, don’t sweat it; we didn’t expect you to. We just wanted to show you why many people often refer to Nigeria’s National Assembly as a retirement home.

You got #{score}/#{total}

Ah ah! You’re basically Nigeria’s Minister of Current Affairs. But even the best need to stay sharp. Keep your knowledge top-tier with The Big Daily newsletter — smart, witty updates on Nigerian news that keep you ahead of the game.

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Retry

You got #{score}/#{total}

Not bad! You’re keeping up, but there’s room for improvement. Subscribe to The Big Daily newsletter to stay on top of Nigeria’s latest news with fun, relatable updates that make politics less boring.

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Retry

You got #{score}/#{total}

Omo! Your current affairs knowledge needs serious help. But don’t worry, we’ve got you. Subscribe to The Big Daily newsletter for witty, no-BS breakdowns of Nigerian news delivered straight to your inbox. You’ll be a current affairs pro in no time.

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Retry

HEY! You can start your politics journey by registering for the Citizen Townhall, a hybrid event that brings together industry experts, young people, and changemakers to discuss strategies for youth involvement in governance, Register now.

Everyone wants to move out until they see the bill. From rents that wipe out your savings to the unexpected cost of feeding, moving out comes with a reality check that no one prepares young people for. 

We spoke to five young Nigerians about the true cost of living alone: financially, emotionally and everything in between. 

Kunle, 25 (Operations Associate, Lagos, ₦170k/ Month)

After NYSC in January 2023, I stayed back in Lagos. Moving back home to Ilé-Ifẹ̀ wasn’t an option — everyone I knew was making big moves, getting jobs, or relocating. I wanted to prove I could be independent, too.

I lived with a friend in Gbagada during my service year, but I had to find my own place after I got a job as an operations associate at an IT firm. My office was in Ikoyi, where rent starts at ₦5 million. That wasn’t happening on my ₦170k salary. 

A friend was moving out of their ₦500k self-contained apartment in Iwaya, Yaba, so I took it. My parents covered the rent, and I got some basic furniture with my ₦150k NYSC savings.

Then, the bills started rolling in. 

I had to pay ₦70k/month for transport. My breakfast, primarily ‘eba’ at work, costs ₦20k monthly. Additional foodstuffs ran into ₦35k. Electricity, water, and data cost ₦20k.

I tracked my monthly spending on transport, food, and other essentials and started budgeting accordingly. Each month, I set aside the exact amount I’d need in Cowrywise. After covering all my expenses, I was left with about ₦20k for miscellaneous spending, which I often used to plan an outing with friends.

If my salary didn’t come in on time, I had to borrow or call home for help. For a few months, I owed the woman in front of my house some money for basic household essentials. I skipped meals often, fell sick regularly, and occasionally when the water stopped running, I had to buy five kegs daily for weeks.

Work also drained me. My bosses constantly made me feel like I was incompetent. I had no time for myself—just work, home, and survival. It felt like I was working to live. On some nights, I talked to my neighbour, sat at the vendor’s stall outside my gate, or went to the football viewing centre or a bar down the street just because I wanted to be around people. The loneliness crept in quickly.

By November 2024, 10 months after I moved, I couldn’t take it anymore. I quit my job and moved back home, not even using up my rent. In retrospect, my biggest mistake was moving out without a solid plan for financial stability. Rent was just the first expense—sustaining myself was the real challenge. If I had upskilled and increased my earning potential before leaving home, maybe I wouldn’t have had to come back.

Abdul, 26 ( Brand Strategist, Abuja & Kaduna, ₦750k/Month)

I have two rented apartments: a self-contained one in Abuja that costs ₦750k/year and a five-bedroom in Kaduna that costs ₦1.7 million. I originally got the Kaduna apartment to use as an Airbnb, but I didn’t get around to setting it up. If not for my master’s degree programme in Abuja and most of my clients being there, I’d stay in Kaduna full-time because of its cheaper cost of living.

₦200k covers all my monthly expenses in Kaduna. However, I spend ₦270k on food alone in Abuja because I don’t cook there. Transport costs roughly ₦150k, and travelling back and forth sets me back ₦44k monthly. Data takes ₦50k, and electricity another ₦20k weekly — easily my biggest shock. All of this comes out of my ₦700k average income.

I love my personal space and the freedom that comes with living alone, but the best part is also the worst part — you’re the Alpha and Omega of your space. If something needs to be done, you either do it yourself or it doesn’t get done. Sometimes, you wish someone could just handle things for you, but that’s not an option. 

That said, living alone has also pushed me to earn more. No one forced me to move out, so why should I call home for help? That mindset pushes me to hustle harder.

Eniola, 23 ( Content Creator, Lagos, ₦350k/Month)

I moved into a room and parlour apartment in Berger in December 2024, and I paid ₦1 million for it. I didn’t want to, but I also didn’t want to move back home after NYSC.

I’d lived briefly with my aunt. And when she travelled in July, I had to move in with my uncle. By November, my uncle and his entire family were pressuring me to leave. They claimed they were travelling to the U.S. for Christmas, so I needed to find my own place. I didn’t take them seriously—until they packed all their travel boxes in my room. 

That was my cue. 

I had to squat with a friend while desperately house-hunting. In the end, I took whatever was available. The worst part? I ran into my uncle’s wife in the area in December. They never travelled; they just wanted me out.

Thankfully, I had saved ₦700k from my pastry business in university and another ₦400k during my NYSC year—from my salary, modelling gigs, and content creation. Rent alone wiped out 90% of my entire savings, and I was left with just ₦100k. Fortunately, my parents sent everything I needed to furnish the apartment from our family’s home in Ibadan, so I managed. I was broke and depressed, praying for a breakthrough. 

I got one. 

One month after moving in, I landed a ₦350k full-time content creator job. The social media management job I had before that didn’t pay up to ₦100k.

Looking back, this experience toughened me up. If I had stayed in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t have taken my finances seriously. Now, I have no choice but to fend for myself, and I needed that push.

Imade, 26 ( Journalist, Lagos, ₦800k/Month)

I’ve been living alone since I was 19. My parents separated when I was 13, and after years in boarding school, I was already used to my own company. Beyond that, I liked the freedom of being on my own.

At the moment, I live in a mini-flat in Gbagada. It’s my little sanctuary— I get the cool breeze and quiet, and it’s all mine. But living alone isn’t just about peace and privacy; it’s also about money. 

My rent is ₦1.8 million, and I made sure I could save for it without ruining my finances. I asked myself: Can I comfortably set aside rent money for six months to a year? So, I split my salary into two and saved the other half monthly. This approach helped me ensure I wasn’t overstretching myself.

I learned early that Lagos doesn’t care about your comfort. My first year here was a reality check. After NYSC, I moved from Ibadan to my dad’s house in Ikorodu while working in Ikeja. When I got a job in Lekki, things got worse; I was waking up at 4 a.m., leaving home an hour later, and still getting to work late. On some days, I took the waterway to save time, but it was still exhausting. My mum found me a temporary place with a family friend on the Island, but I needed my own space.

Eventually, my mum contacted another friend who was renting out a self-contained apartment for ₦300k. I had saved ₦200k, but I needed more for rent and basics—mattress, curtains, kitchen utensils. Another family friend loaned me the rest and later forgave the debt. I was very grateful for the generosity. I also had to be cautious of my spending, because I was living on a ₦150k salary. My biggest expenses besides rent were electricity, transportation, and black tax.

I had no financial shocks because I have always taken care of myself. But I won’t lie; I wish I didn’t have to pay rent so I could save more. I’ve had to cut back on food and transport and even take on extra work. Food is my biggest betrayal. I used to budget ₦15k for food a month, but now, ₦30k isn’t enough. But as long as I have food at home, I feel okay. Even when I’m “broke”, which, to me, means having ₦150k–₦200k.

Would I ever move back home? Only if there’s no other option in the entire universe.

If you’re thinking about moving out, ask yourself: Can you really afford it? If you split your salary in two and save for six months, would rent break you? House hunting in Lagos is the ghetto. I nearly gave up and went back home. So, plan well, save aggressively, and don’t rush.

Adam, 21 ( Virtual Assistant, Ibadan, ₦200k/Month)

I stayed back in Ibadan after finishing NYSC in October 2024. I initially lived in a self-contained apartment with a colleague, but later, we moved into a two-bedroom flat that cost ₦1 million. We split the rent equally: ₦500k each.

I had managed to save ₦150k from my NYSC Primary Place of Assignment (PPA) because there was an option to receive payment in bulk at the end of the service year. I paid my share of the rent using my savings and additional income from a crypto trade I did in September, which earned me $400.

Now, I work as a virtual assistant and earn ₦200k monthly. My biggest expense is food, which takes  ₦70k/month because I barely cook. Data and gym subscriptions take another ₦30k each, electricity is ₦6k, and I spend about ₦20k on transportation since I rarely go out.

I never had to think about fixing things until I moved out. Now, when something breaks—like when our pumping machine got damaged—it’s my headache.

The best part has been developing a stronger sense of responsibility. I have to plan for everything — new purchases, house expenses, savings. I don’t regret moving out, but I do get lonely. I barely hang out, and my friends are all busy with work. Lately, all I think about is working more hours so I can earn enough to sustain myself.

Bottom Line

If you’re comfortable in your parent’s house and not under pressure to leave, stay and save aggressively. Moving out isn’t just about rent — it’s about sustaining yourself, and the costs add up fast. But if you’re ready to take the leap, plan well, increase your earning potential, and prepare for the unexpected. 

Independence is great, but survival is better.

ALSO READ: How to Make Money Online as a Student in Nigeria, According to Students Actually Doing It 

The topic of how young Nigerians navigate romantic relationships with their earnings is a minefield of hot takes. In Love Currency, we get into what relationships across income brackets look like in different cities.

How long have you been with your partner?

My wife, Uloma, and I have been married for 10 years, but we started dating in 2006. So, we’ve been together for 19 years. 

How did you both meet?

We attended the same secondary school. Then, we reconnected during the 2006 census exercise. Movements were restricted, but I was a baseline technician with a telecoms company. 

My job was to monitor the base station and manually restore the signal if the electricity went off so people still had service. That made me an essential worker, so I had a driver take me and my colleagues to and fro work during that period. 

One day, the driver didn’t come on time, so I decided to walk. That’s how I passed by Uloma’s house and saw her sitting by the stairs. We were excited to see each other again and started talking regularly. Those were the days of MTN Xtracool. We’d talk all night till 6 a.m. I asked her out some days after, and she accepted. 

What were the early days of the relationship like?

Really good. Uloma was in her third year at uni, and I earned ₦48k/month — which was good money — but she never brought any financial burden to me. I appreciated that because I was also saving to pursue a university education. She was modest, and the only thing she asked of me was assurance that I wouldn’t waste her time and we’d end up married.

I finally got into the university for a part-time program in 2008. By then, she was in her final year, and the pressure intensified. It was clear she wanted us to get married soon or at least get engaged. It scared me, to be honest. I loved her, but I wasn’t financially ready for marriage, and I didn’t see myself depending on anyone for money to provide for my home. 

I wanted to finish school, work for a few years, and make enough to afford a comfortable life. Granted, I still made at least ₦35k/month working as a personal assistant to a public figure while in school and had up to ₦2m in my savings. But I didn’t think it was enough to start life. Still, I relented, and we got engaged in 2011 while I was still in school. But then another problem came.

What problem was that?

Uloma’s elder brother, who lived in the UK, started making plans for her to join him, and Uloma started pressuring me to do a traditional wedding so she wouldn’t go to the UK with empty promises. 

Even after she travelled in 2012, she wanted me to visit her hometown and perform the traditional rites in her absence, but I wasn’t okay with that. She’d left on a visitor’s visa and couldn’t return until she had the proper documents. What if she stayed there for three more years? At some point, we broke up and got back together after a few months.

On my own end, I began planning to leave the country for my master’s program. I left for Canada in 2013, and the whole thing cost c$10k (₦3m at the time). I took a loan and relied on an uncle’s goodwill to meet that amount.

Why not the UK to meet Uloma, though?

The UK denied my visa. It was Canada that worked out. After my program, I visited Nigeria in 2014. Thankfully, Uloma’s visa was renewed, so she also visited Nigeria, and we finally got married.

After the wedding, I returned to Canada and applied for another UK visitor visa. They approved it this time, and I got to spend a few weeks with Uloma. But then I got a job with a pharmaceutical company in Germany and had to move again. The salary was €2300/month with free accommodation. It was too good an opportunity to pass up.

Unfortunately, Uloma couldn’t come with me because of visa restrictions. So, we’ve lived in separate countries since 2014. 

Ah. Isn’t that hard?

The good thing about our arrangement is that the distance between our cities is like Lagos and Abuja — a 45-minute flight or a 10-hour drive. The flight costs less than €100, and I can travel to see my family — we have two kids now — every weekend if I want. We visit each other at least twice a month.

At first, I did all the travelling because my blue card visa allowed me to enter the UK without a visa. But Uloma has been a British citizen since 2019, just like I’m a German citizen, and we can travel to visit each other freely. 

Who pays for these trips?

I do, most of the time. Since we got married, I’ve handled most of my wife’s financial needs, including rent. We have a house in the UK now, so I pay the £480/month mortgage. I also pay my €900/month rent here in Germany. 

My wife works with the NHS and makes less than £3k/month, but she’s been very helpful financially. She takes up most of the bills without even mentioning them to me, especially if they are for our children.

I don’t have a set allowance I send to her. She just says she needs money for something, and I send it. Most of my income goes to my wife and kids.

How do you plan for romance stuff while living in different countries?

We travel for vacations, and I plan these for when the kids are out of school. Germany is a very organised country, and they encourage workers to plan their holiday dates months in advance. By October 2024, I already knew when my holiday would fall in 2025. 

This helps me plan trips and save on flight costs. I buy tickets in advance and take advantage of holiday packages. Most of our trips cost around €1k. The most expensive trip we’ve taken so far was to Turkey, which cost less than €6k. It cost that much because we stayed in an all-inclusive five-star hotel for a week. 

Do you both plan to live in the same country someday?

We’ve actually given each other until the end of the year to decide where to live so we can be together for the kids. I don’t like the UK, and I’d have loved for my wife to come here. But it’d be a struggle for her to learn German. So, it’s either I join my family in the UK or we go to another country together.

Do you have a safety net for this potential move?

My wife and I have a joint savings account where we each save a percentage of our income. I try to do €300/month; my wife sometimes does up to £600. We currently have about £29k in that account. But we’re not just saving for the move. When it gets to £100k, we’ll put 50% cash into purchasing another house and take out a mortgage for the remaining 50% balance. Then, we’ll rent out the house and use the income to pay the mortgage.

What’s your ideal financial future as a couple?

When we start living together, our expenses will reduce. I hope to invest the extra income in starting a business so that I don’t need to be employed by anyone and we can have income flexibility.

Interested in talking about how money moves in your relationship? If yes, click here.

*Names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.

NEXT READ: This Social Worker Earning ₦110k/Month Expresses Her Love by Gifting

It’s about to be a hell of a day for patients at the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan because their doctors have decided to stand on their ten toes against the horrible condition they’ve had to live in for months.

What’s going on?

On Monday, February 17, members of the Association of Resident Doctors at UCH Ibadan officially embarked on an indefinite strike to protest the electricity blackout in some parts of the hospital. This story actually goes way back; stay with me.

How it started

UCH owed the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) so much money (₦3.1 billion to be exact), and the electricity company had been patient with them since 2019 when the bill started piling up. But on October 26, 2024, they decided they had enough and cut off the hospital’s power supply over an outstanding ₦400 million debt, part of its accumulated bill.

102 days of darkness

For 102 days, the entire teaching hospital was in absolute darkness. Both doctors, patients, and students in the hospital were deeply frustrated by this, and they spoke out several times. The first was through a protest held in November 2024 by relatives of the hospital’s patients; “We are tired of our loved ones suffering; patients are dying because they cannot receive the medical tests needed for treatment,” one of the protesters said at the time.

Nothing was done about the complaints raised in the November protest, so months later, medical students schooling in the teaching hospital protested on January 25, 2025, in State and Federal Secretariats about the same issue, yet nothing was done. On February 10, they organised a second protest at the office of the hospital’s Chief Medical Director (CMD). Power was restored to the hospital two days later, except it didn’t get to the doctors’ quarters.

The last straw

It was one thing when the entire hospital did not have light, and it was a different level of frustration seeing that the main hospital had been disconnected while residential parts of the hospital remained in darkness. The resident doctors at UCH weren’t having it, so on Friday, February 14, they held an emergency meeting, and issued an ultimatum after, saying they’d go on an indefinite strike if power was not restored to the residential areas of the hospital, latest, 4 pm on Monday, February 17.

The doctors were not shitting around because after they saw that their warnings were ignored, they embarked on the strike just like they said they would and at the time they specified.

Why does this matter?

It’s a no-brainer— the doctors at UCH have endured horrible working conditions and deserve better. Additionally, the absence of doctors has automatically put the lives of patients at risk, but the authorities who should solve both problems are not doing anything about it.

It’s even crazier because UCH is not the only Nigerian hospital that has had to deal with poor electricity supply. The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have had this issue in the past, and so have Primary Healthcare Centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), AKA, where the President lives.

While the primary concern in these situations is usually the well-being of the patients, the medical professionals suffer, too. It’s not just poor power supply; they also have to endure other terrible things like late and sometimes non-payment of salaries. The situation is so bad that  16,000 doctors have left Nigeria in five years. It got even worse because, in 2024 alone, a whopping 15,000 doctors left the country.

As of March 2024, there were only 55,000 licensed doctors in Nigeria. Lagos and Abuja alone had a huge chunk of the doctor population (12,300), leaving the rest of the country with 42,700.

With the crazy number of doctors’ exodus recorded in 2024, Nigeria might be in big soup because even more doctors might leave, as nothing much has changed. This possible reduction in the doctor population will leave Nigeria open to massive casualties in the event of a disease outbreak. With big donors like the United States taking a step back in foreign aid, there is no better time for the government to sit up than now.

What can you do to change things?

Part of the oversight functions of the National Assembly is to summon government officials and ministries for questioning over poor performance and other similar issues. The medical sector is long overdue for serious intervention, but since that has not happened yet, you can pressure the National Assembly into taking action by doing the following:

[ad]