Zikoko!

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.

What’s your earliest memory of money?

One I’ll always remember happened when I was 7 or 8. My mum was sick, so she sent me down the street to buy a bottle of 7Up. It was the first time she’d ever sent me on an errand outside. Our domestic help who handled these was running another errand.

I can’t remember exactly how much the bottle cost, but it wasn’t more than ₦100. My mum gave me the money and watched me from the balcony to make sure I got to the shop safely.

I don’t know how it happened, but when I got to the shop, I didn’t have the money anymore. I’d lost it on the way somehow. I got the beating of my life when I got back home.

I realised money was important enough to get that kind of reaction from my mum. I kept complaining to our help like, “Mummy beat me like that because of how much?”

Tell me more about your childhood. What were the finances like?

I grew up really comfortable. My mum was an accountant — think proper career woman — until she had my younger sister and switched to teaching, while my dad was a management consultant. I attended one of the best primary schools, and we had two cars.

Things changed in 2018 when I got into uni. My dad got sick and couldn’t work for years, which set us back. We sold the cars and several other things to meet bills and survive. We even changed churches because it became too expensive to bundle everyone in public transport and travel that distance. All the things my dad used to do for us, including random stipends and gifts at the end of a school term, stopped.

How did these changes impact you?

When I first entered 100 level, my mum put ₦100k into an account for me to withdraw gradually and cover my needs. She had access to the account, and when the balance was running low, she’d top it up. I hardly noticed when the account was low because she often topped it up.

However, when my dad’s sickness got serious and they started preparing for surgery, the automatic credits stopped. In fact, my mum started calling to question every withdrawal I made.

“What are you spending money on? Small small o, there’s no money o.”

That’s when it started to hit me that something was up. I went from going to the ATM to withdraw cash whenever I wanted to seeing “insufficient funds” and getting ₦3k – ₦5k weekly to survive.

School went on strike as I was rounding up 100 level, and I used that period to earn money.

Was that the first time you worked to earn money?

Oh no. The first time was in 2017, the year between finishing secondary school and getting into uni. I apprenticed with an event decorator/baker. Whenever my boss catered an event, she took us apprentices along to work as waitresses and paid us ₦1k or ₦2k. Those gigs came in about once every two or three months. Getting admitted to uni meant the end of that income source.

Now back to the strike.

I had free time, so I worked at a school as a teacher’s assistant, helping care for and feed the kids in kindergarten and nursery school. They paid me ₦4k/month for the three months I worked there. I stopped the job when the strike was called off.

₦4k per month is crazy

See, I wasn’t even expecting to get paid. The proprietress was the same woman I’d apprenticed with earlier in 2017. To be honest, I just worked at the school, so I wouldn’t stay at home doing nothing.

Growing up comfortable made me unbothered about making money, which was foolish because I had a lot to worry about. I guess it was because my parents tried their best to provide me with things I needed, so I had this mentality of, “Why should I be suffering myself? I’m fine.”

I used to do a lot of things for free. People would come to me asking for help baking something, and I’d literally tell them not to pay me. I’d be like, “Don’t worry. Just bring money for the materials.” Mumu me. Even the ₦4k I earned from the school was spent on foolish things like data and sweets. So, I wasn’t bothered about whether it was small or not.

Right. So you stopped the job after school resumed. Did you try anything else to make money?

I tried to join an ushering agency, but it didn’t work out. During the 2020 lockdown, I abandoned baking and decoration (which I didn’t even finish learning) to learn tailoring. My parents paid ₦25k for the training, which lasted about six or seven months before school resumed in March 2021.

Why the switch, though?

No reason. I was just no longer interested in baking. Even the tailoring, I didn’t finish learning it. When another ASUU strike happened in February 2022, I went back to tailoring for a bit. But by September, I got tired and decided to make money instead.

So, I started teaching at a school for ₦10k/month. I only worked there for two months because ASUU called off the strike. After completing my project and clearance in February 2023, I returned to work at the school. They increased my salary to ₦15k since I was technically a graduate. I worked there till July/August when I went for NYSC.

For my service year, I worked as an HR assistant at an electricity distribution company. They paid me ₦10k/month, and I also received the ₦33k allawee from NYSC. I completed my service in August 2024 and returned to work at the school after unsuccessfully job-hunting for a while. I thought, “Let me just be here to pass time.”

But I became comfortable and worked there from 2024 to March 2026. In fact, I officially stopped working on the 2nd of April, 2026.

Interesting. What was your income like at the school?

When I went back in 2024, I was earning ₦30k/month. In January 2025, I was made the school administrator/head teacher and got a salary bump to ₦32k. Then, in September 2025, I got another raise to ₦35k/month. That was what I earned till I left.

At some point in 2025, I gave private lessons to some students at the school, and my monthly income jumped to ₦80k. I think that was from February to July 2025. That stopped when the students left the school, and I went back to my ₦32k.

Why did you eventually leave?

I just started my master’s programme. My dad has been on my neck about it for a while, and I finally got around to it. Unfortunately, I didn’t think it through; I was just looking for a way to get out of my parents’ house.

The area we live in is very backward, and I don’t think one can really make any kind of progress in that place. The only way my parents would let me leave is if I went for my master’s or got a job that required me to leave. Since I wasn’t getting a job, the master’s was the next best thing. Then, I made the mistake of choosing a master’s in the education sector. I’ve been trying to get into HR or admin, and I should’ve chosen a course related to that.

So, I’m worried this might be a waste of time, but I figure it might not matter. I don’t necessarily have to study a related course to get an opportunity in HR.

Is the plan to job-hunt while studying?

Yes. I’m trying my best to get a job. I’m hoping for something remote right now because my master’s programme is putting me through a lot. I took a virtual assistance course in 2022, and I think I’ve been sleeping on it. People are making money with that. So, I’m hoping to land a virtual assistant gig.

Also, I know how to make beads. It’s one of the many skills I learned. I’m thinking of starting my bead-craft business, which I’ve been postponing for about 6 years now. If I can get enough capital, I can go to the market and see what materials I can get. I really want to start a business. I don’t even know why; it just sounds nice. Maybe if I have that, with a remote job that doesn’t interfere with classes, I can start changing my life.

How are you surviving right now without an income?

Well, I haven’t gotten to that stage yet, since I was paid before leaving my job. Right now, I have about ₦20k in my whole life. I don’t know where that will take me. I’m hoping I’ll have figured something out before it finishes. I know I’ll survive somehow. I’ve been broke before, and I didn’t die.

Do you have a safety net, though, just in case?

I would’ve said my savings, but I recently emptied them to rent an apartment for ₦150k. My parents are there, but I really hope I don’t have to call them. I’m sure they’re tired of me. I mean, they sponsored my fees and even tried to sort out hostel accommodation for me. Unfortunately, something happened to the accommodation, and we’re still trying to resolve it. I had to pay out of pocket in the meantime.

I’m really hoping to get motion within the next six months because no be only me dem born. I need to figure things out. God abeg.

How would you describe your relationship with money?

Money feels like something that’s very far from me, and I’ve felt this way for the last year or two. I know I’m part of the problem, and I have underlying issues that only God can save me from.

What kind of issues?

Everyone wants to make money, right? But I don’t have that push. I can sit down today and imagine all the moves I want to make, but I don’t follow through.

For instance, take this beads business I’ve been putting off. Once in 2020, I was so broke that I decided I couldn’t keep going that way. I got fired up and decided to start the business immediately, whether I had a good phone for pictures or not. I entered the market with my last ₦3k or ₦4k and bought materials to make a beaded bag. People in the hostel saw me making it and kept dropping compliments.

I finished making that bag and only posted it once on Nairaland. After that day, I forgot I had any motion to start a beads business. That bag is still in my house today. The following year, I got “fired up” again, but I still didn’t follow through. I get episodes of high motivation like that. I’ll buy beads and start making them all over the house. My family will be like, “Okay, maybe this time will work.” Still, nothing. I’ll just find one excuse: if it’s not my phone not being good enough for pictures, it’s that the background is not fine for the content.

In 2023, after another self-talk and motivation nonsense, I disturbed my parents to get me a laptop. I told them I wanted to learn data analytics, that it’s “remote work that is reigning now.” They got me the laptop in two weeks. I was serious about learning for the first three months, then I dropped it.

I picked it up again in 2024 and learned Excel, SQL, and Tableau. I even opened a Twitter account dedicated to documenting my learning process, but I didn’t follow through.

Hmm

That’s why I say I’m my own problem. I’m always jumping from pillar to post. I’ve learned everything from crocheting to catering and tailoring. Upon all, nothing.

It’s somehow because my parents always pay for these things. I can just tell them one new thing, and they’re ready to support me without asking questions.

So yeah, I have a problem that I need to tackle first. Because if not, all this mouth I’m making about starting my bead business this year might follow the same pattern.

I struggle with execution. Because motivation? E plenty die. I also have lots of business ideas. I’ve motivated many of my friends and given them business ideas, and they’re flourishing. But to apply the same thing to my life is a problem. Maybe I just don’t know how to leave my comfort zone.

People say identifying the problem is the first step to solving it. Do you think accepting your struggles might change anything?

I don’t think so. This is something I’ve known about myself for like three years now, but the realisation has done nothing for me. Maybe it’s deliverance I need at this point.

Let’s talk about your typical monthly expenses. What do they look like?

I spend more than my salary every month, and I honestly don’t know how. To be fair, students’ parents often dashed me money, so that helped. Now that I no longer teach, the “free money” will reduce. That’s one thing I’ll miss about teaching.

You mentioned some savings which you used for accommodation earlier. I’m curious; do you have a specific approach to savings?

It’s not consistent. I typically save whenever I get extra money. A big part of the ₦150k savings came from some money my dad gave me for clearance last month. I didn’t use it all, so I kept some. Then, when someone dashes me money, I sometimes save it. In January, I started a ₦200 daily savings plan on an app, but it only lasted that month. Now, I just save when I can.

Is there an ideal amount of money you think you should be earning monthly right now?

Honestly, there’s no amount I think I deserve right now because I don’t think I have the skill set to demand money. Maybe if I were still teaching, I’d say ₦250k would be ideal. At least, it’s not too much for a school administrator.

You don’t consider your several vocational skills as skills?

Well, I didn’t really learn them to make money. They were just side quests. For instance, with tailoring, I just liked fashion and looking nice, so I was watching DIY YouTube videos and making clothes with a needle and thread. My dad noticed and said I should just learn to use the machine. That’s why I did it. I honestly have too many interests to focus on one.

Gotcha. What about something you want right now but can’t afford?

My phone. If I finally start my beads business — maybe the 10th attempt will be the charm — I’ll need a good phone for content. I would need at least ₦400k for that.

How would you rate your financial happiness on a scale of 1-10?

2. At my big age, I should be doing more. Where I am right now is a horrible place to be. I need to put my head in the game and lock in. Because how hard is it really to make money? I’m sure it’d be easier if I weren’t jumping from one thing to another all the time.

If you’re interested in talking about your Naira Life story, this is a good place to start.

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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.

Bolu (30) spent his early years in the UK for medical treatment, so returning in 2018 for a master’s felt like a fresh start in a familiar place. In this story, he shares great tips for building community and making friends through activities and social clubs, the pain of being so far away when his grandfather passed, and why he keeps putting off his return to Nigeria.

Where do you live currently, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I live in the United Kingdom (UK), currently and I am based in Manchester. I left Nigeria in August 2018.

I was quite sick as a child, so I spent some of my formative years here, getting treatment. I moved back to Nigeria when I was about five years old. After my treatment, I still had to come over once in a while, for maybe a month or two at a time, for follow-ups and to visit family.

What inspired your move in 2018?

I came to do my master’s; it was a bit of a fresh start. Part of it was because my dad was panicking a bit about my future. I was pleasantly surprised when he offered to pay for my master’s, so I took the opportunity.

I think he wasn’t really sure about my career path because I was doing some writing and working in a few Nollywood and media productions here and there. He wanted a bit more structure for me and was worried about my future, so he suggested I get my master’s in something a bit more formal. I was already somewhat frustrated in Nigeria, so I thought, “Why not?”

When did you finish your master’s?

I did a pre-degree programme for about a year, and then I finished my master’s in early 2021.

But you stayed in the UK after that. What’s behind that decision?

I quite like it here, to be honest. I’ve built a decent community, and I like the country’s structure and organisation. I’m pretty happy here, though I do get homesick quite a lot. I’m very close to my family, particularly my dad and my brother. I miss them, but I also have some family in the UK and very good friends. Even if I move to Nigeria, I think there will still be a bit of a push and pull.

What was life like for you before you left Nigeria in 2018?

I was working as a production assistant on a few Nollywood movies, ad shoots, and things like that. I’m a big film buff, so a dream of mine at the time was to be the Nigerian equivalent of Christopher Nolan. In my head, I was going to change the game.

But I realised it was extremely tough work and I didn’t have the patience at the time to be a director. I used to be hypercritical of Nollywood, but after working on a few productions, the constraints they faced made me a bit more sympathetic. I realised it isn’t as easy as it seems from the outside. There are a lot of forces and moving pieces that make it much harder than I thought. I needed to give them more credit.

Let’s talk about life in the UK. What was your experience when you first arrived?

When I first arrived, I was a bit nervous. I had ties back in Nigeria and people I really cared about, so I knew I was going to miss them. I was a bit anxious at first, but then I started to settle. I made friends in my programme, and I already had quite a few friends from Nigeria who had moved to the UK. Honestly, I’ve always been a bit of a social butterfly, so that part wasn’t hard.

What kind of activities do you get up to?

If you really get involved with social clubs, you’ll easily have an exciting life in the UK. There’s also a lot of opportunity and ease to travelling across the UK and also Europe in a way we haven’t figured out in Nigeria. I’ve really enjoyed exploring here. My friends even call me “waka-about.”

What tips would you give to someone looking to have fun in the UK?

There are social clubs and things people need to try out. It’s hard to make friends in adulthood, but just know there are other people also looking for community. You have to put yourself out there. You might even have to start doing things you didn’t normally do before. For example, I got into fitness, running, and hiking.

Nigerians like movies, so you can join a movie club. Some people do painting clubs. There are a ton of things to do. Parties are also great for socialisation, but you’ll mostly find those in bigger cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham, and you have to be willing to spend a bit of money.

You mentioned you love exploring Europe. What’s your favourite and least favourite country you’ve visited?

My favourite was Italy. I found it so beautiful, and the weather was warm. It finally hit me how Italy makes so much of the world’s wine. You don’t really get it until you’re there and see vineyards stretching for miles. You can drive for an hour and only see vast vineyards.

My least favourite country was Amsterdam. It’s not bad, but my friends and I walked past the Red Light District, and I found it a bit off-putting. I know it’s a big tourist attraction, but I found it really strange. I was like, “Yeah, I don’t want to see this again.”

You’ve been in the UK for several years now. Do you feel you’ve hit the milestones in your plan?

I’m not close to the milestones, I won’t lie. A part of me is still thinking I need to come back to Nigeria at times. I have career and personal milestones I need to hit. Compared to what 20 or 25-year-old me thought, I’m not quite where I want to be in my career, though I’m making some strides.

I thought I’d be married by 28, with maybe a kid on the way at 30. That doesn’t quite seem to be on the cards right now, but we’ll see.

Are there downsides to the move?

It depends on your situation. I’ll be honest and say my family back in Nigeria is pretty comfortable. If I’m out of a job for a month or two, I can live with a family friend for short periods until I’m back on my feet. Not everybody has that luxury, and the UK can be a bit tough if you don’t have support.

Overall, I feel safer and more stable here than in Nigeria, despite being more privileged in Nigeria.

Have you been back to Nigeria since 2018?

Of course. I try to come back most Christmases. I think I’ve been back for five or six so far. I didn’t make it the first year I moved in 2018, because I moved in August and coming back in December was too soon. The second time I missed it was because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The third time, my dad decided to surprise me, my brother, and my mom in the UK, so we spent it here instead of travelling back. It was a cool surprise, but after a day or two, I think we all would have preferred to be in Nigeria instead.

Do you have a favourite December experience?

My favourite one was probably 2019. It was just really fun. I just remember non-stop fun. I don’t know what was in the water that December; it was just a great time. My close friend’s wedding also added to the fun.

What are your go-to activities when you visit Nigeria?

I have a love-hate relationship with Nigerian concerts. I do enjoy certain artists’ concerts because they tend to start on time and have decent opening acts and sound. But I have such a strong beef with some Nigerian artists because they won’t come out until around 2:00 a.m. or 3:00 a.m. Aren’t you tired yourself? I find it exhausting.

I like plays, so I’ll go to as many as I can. And I also love attending weddings. I enjoy raves too, although the last time I went in December, I was tired by 3:00 a.m., even though it went on for three more hours. I realised maybe I’m getting to the age where it’s time to hang it up.

Of course, I’ll catch up with friends, and I really like my family a lot, so I enjoy spending time with them.

My palette has completely adapted to English food and cuisine, but I still enjoy Nigerian food. The only struggle is managing my fitness when I get back to Nigeria because I love food. I have to work out a lot to keep the weight down. In Nigeria, if I don’t wake up super early to run, it gets very humid and hot, which ruins the running experience.

Do you ever see yourself moving back to settle in Nigeria?

I honestly should have moved back about two or three years ago. I think I’m procrastinating moving back, and all my friends are tired of me saying it.

My dad wants me to work for him, but I’m not sure I want to do that, and I also have some of my own things going on. I don’t want to completely rely on him. I know I sound like a typical nepo baby who wants to do their own thing, but I really do want to have my own things going.

How do you feel about the political shift in the West and the rise in anti-immigrant sentiments?

It kind of ebbs and flows. I just wish there were more bold leadership instead of people scapegoating immigrants. There is a cost to immigration that was not calculated, like planning for assimilation and building cultural bonds. Instead, there has been an emergence of enclaves.

I won’t say I feel unsafe, but it is worrying. I feel like no one knows the direction to lead the country, and because of that, they blame immigrants. That conversation has been avoided for a long time, and anti-immigrant groups take advantage of it. If people in power were honest about mistakes made in the initial immigration policy and had a conversation about fixing it, it would be better.

But in the UK, it is still mostly rhetoric. People are not firebombing things or attacking immigrants in the streets en masse. We still have strong structural protections in place that protect you from overt racism. It’s not great, but it’s not the end of the world. I just wish for smarter leadership to get the country going.

What has been your worst experience in the UK?

When my granddad passed away in Nigeria. I just wish I were there when he passed. He was my paternal granddad, and we were really close. I thought we’d have more time to talk and see each other. That’s the cost of living in another country.

Thank God for technology; in previous generations, once you immigrated, those people were out of sight and out of mind for years. Technology has bridged the gap, but it’s not the same as being able to see someone and hug them and tell them you love them face-to-face. Not being there for his funeral made me really sad. He was a warm and funny man who really cared about me.

Sorry for your loss. What has been your best experience?

It wasn’t down to one thing, but probably 2024 and 2025 in Manchester. I was just having a blast. I had this really great friend group, and we spent all our time together. My life became like a season of Friends; we’d see each other three or four times a week. My job wasn’t too bad, I was travelling as much as I wanted, and I was in a very good mental space. I was really happy. I took my fitness seriously and started running. It felt like everything was just going right.

What are your favourite and least favourite things about the UK?

I hate the weather from September to March when it gets cold, grey, and dark. It’s expensive at times. It’s less communal; sometimes it’s nice that people mind their own business, but I miss that communal feeling in Nigeria.

My favourite thing is definitely my friends. I love my friends. I also really love the UK in the summer, from May to August. There are so many festivals, art events, and theatre. It isn’t free, and it eats into my savings, but I have great memories.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in the UK?

I think overall, I’ll give my stay here an eight and a half out of ten. But at this moment, it’s a seven.

Some of my really close friends left Manchester, so that was heartbreak. My brother also moved back to Nigeria. We are really close, so I miss him a lot. And more money—much more money would help. If my friends were back in town and I had more money, it would be a ten.

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).

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Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways to Japa speaks to real people and explores the endless reasons and paths they take to japa.

Stephanie (29) planned to further her studies about six years after school. But that plan came crashing down after she suffered a traumatic loss. In this story, she shares how she went to the UK rather hurriedly, how she settled in and how she’s now thriving.

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I’m currently living in the United Kingdom (UK). I left Nigeria in January 2023.

What inspired your decision to move?

I had always wanted to further my education abroad, but the catalyst to my decision was the death of my father. I lost my dad in 2022, but by 2023, I still hadn’t moved past it. I couldn’t. I decided I needed a change of environment and that I needed to channel my energy and efforts into something that would help me manage the grief.

And so, even though I initially planned to work for about five years after my bachelor’s degree before getting a master’s, I had to speed it up. That was how I ended up in the UK.

Oh my. I’m so sorry to hear about your dad

Thank you.

What course did you study for your master’s?

I did my master’s in Project Management at Leeds Beckett University in Leeds, England.

What was the financing like?

It was self-funded, and I strongly advise against it. I only had to do it because of the circumstances surrounding my decision. I encourage people to do their own research to see the array of options out there and then determine which is most suitable for them. That’s exactly why I decided to share my story on this edition of 1000 Ways To Japa.

How did you find out about Leeds Beckett University?

I found the school myself. I did the hard work of researching things because I was particular about where I was going to live. I’m not a country girl; I was really keen on a city that was not too busy, but comfortable enough to give me what I wanted. I wanted a small city.

I found a couple of schools in cities that ticked my boxes, and I applied. Leeds Beckett was one of them. I got the admission, and the rest is history.

What other qualities were you looking for?

Before I chose Leeds Beckett, I read reviews online about them, went through their curriculum to see if the classes they offer under my chosen course aligned with what I wanted to learn and what I needed at that point in my life.

I also spoke to a representative of the school, whom I asked a couple of questions, and I reached out to some of their alumni on LinkedIn with questions, which helped give me insight into the school’s culture and the overall experience of studying there. These things helped me make up my mind. Both the school representative in Nigeria and the alumni were kind and super helpful with the process.

That’s nice

Yes. When I had a bit of a hiccup with my Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), the school’s representative pursued it for me and helped me get in right on time for my visa application.

What were your classes like?

It wasn’t anything strenuous. I was required to be on campus three days a week, and two days some weeks. A handful of times, our classes were rescheduled and held online, but it wasn’t a fixed thing; it was based on contingencies like a train strike or a disruption on the road.

That sounds fair. What was the application process like?

I applied online after I had gotten all the answers I needed. As I mentioned earlier, the school’s representative was quite helpful throughout the process.

One of the things I submitted was a Statement of Purpose (SOP). The SOP is a detailed essay where you get to explain why you want to pursue your master’s (or any other degree) at the school, as well as why you have chosen a specific course.

I was a Product Manager back in Nigeria. So, while applying, I explained in detail what Project Management meant to me, particularly in regard to how it’d enable me to gain certain leadership, resource management, and time management skills.

I also ensured, while writing, that I presented myself as someone who has done due diligence on the school, so they have a mental image of someone who is fully committed to success. I noted some of the feedback I got from the alumni of the school, why I wanted to study there, why I wanted to be in the city, how drawn I am to the school’s cultural diversity, some of the things I hope to achieve and how I hope to give back through active participation in the school’s cultural activities, membership of some of its societies and communities, particularly its diversity community.

After I submitted my SOP, the school offered me a conditional offer to apply for my CAS. It took about a month for me to get it, and I think it was largely due to the influx of applications during my time.

Anyhow, I couldn’t apply for a visa without a CAS from the school, so I waited till it came. When it finally came, I applied for my visa and got it in about two weeks.

What were the requirements for the visa?

I was required to present my passports, proof of funds, CAS document, and my National Identification Number (NIN). I also had to do a mandatory tuberculosis test and present proof that I had made some form of payment to the school. My school’s requirement was for a 50% down payment, while some schools accepted 15%, 20%, and 25%; I already knew this from research, but I didn’t mind because I really wanted to go to that school.

Can you remember how much the entire process cost you?

The cost has increased for sure. At the time, Leeds Beckket was offering a 3% discount to applicants from countries like Nigeria, which reduced my school fees. There were my flight ticket, visa fees, and other things I can’t quite remember. Altogether, I estimate the entire process of coming to the UK cost me about £8,000- £10,000.

Did you use a travel agent for the process?

I did everything myself. It looked doable, so I didn’t think I needed to pay someone else to do it. It also helped that the school’s representative in Nigeria created a WhatsApp group for applicants in the country to communicate and help each other with frequently asked questions. In the group, you’d find that a lot of your questions had already been asked by someone else and that they had been answered thoroughly.

The application process is honestly not that difficult. As long as you’re a person who is not afraid to ask questions. You’ll find that people are willing to help for free. Also, do your research; that helps.

Do you recommend Leeds Beckett to people looking to study in the UK?

Yes, I absolutely do. In addition to its multicultural nature, the school often organised a lot of self and career-building events where they invite companies to come talk to students about the entailments of certain job roles as well as other careers we can venture into with our certificates.

I spoke with representatives from different companies, from banking and construction to the force and police, and tech. I told them what I did back in Nigeria, the course I was studying, and what I want to do afterwards. I also asked them how I could get my foot in the door. I got lots of helpful tips from them. Those events were so helpful; they opened my eyes and showed me the possibility of returning to my career field, Product Management.

Some companies also offered things like paid internships for people doing more technical courses, like software development, and others to gain practical experience.

That’s really nice. Did you say you had a career in Product Management?

Yes, I did. I was a Product Manager in Nigeria, but I did a master’s in Project Management here. I see how that can be confusing. I chose to do it because there were no Product Management courses at the time, and it was the closest thing to the field I already had a career in.

What do you currently do?

I’m a Product Manager.

Awesome. What visa are you currently on?

I’m currently on a graduate visa. The UK gives student visa holders two years after their studies to gain work experience, but I hear it’s now been changed to 18 months. You’re supposed to find a visa that’ll keep you here more permanently if your goal is to stay. You can get either a work visa, a Tier One visa like the global talent visa, or a spousal visa if you happen to find love.

What is the UK work culture like?

While I was still studying for my master’s, I did some part-time jobs to provide for myself. From a teaching assistant, supermarket assistant, to an event steward. The experience was different then than it is now that I’m working a full job in my field.

Working in the UK is amazing, particularly as a Product Manager, because I work cross-functionally: I not only get to mix with the teams, but also with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. From Asians, Caucasians, and Africans, it’s all so interesting.

When we meet outside of work and get into relaxing conversations, we find that we actually share similar experiences across cultures. It’s always a pleasant surprise to learn that people did, saw, or ate the same things you did growing up, even if they’re from across the world. One of the most memorable ones was our software engineer who grew up drinking Milo and pronounced it differently. Before that conversation, I always thought it was only Nigerians who drank it.

So, the blend of cultures is interesting both in their differences and similarities. I am grateful for the opportunity to be in that scene filled with people from different mindsets, different journeys, and everyone coming together to achieve our shared goal, which is building a product that works and serves its users.

That’s so beautiful

It is. Thank you.

What’s your favourite thing about the UK?

I love the blend of cultures and how efficient the system is. I also love how accessible opportunities are to everyone; as long as you know what you’re doing, it doesn’t matter who you are, you’ll get the job.

Another thing I love is how respectful they are of your work experience from your home country. Everyone respects each other and works together. I know I’m far away from home, but the UK is gradually becoming a second home to me.

Lovely. So what’s your least favourite thing about the UK?

The cold. The UK is quite cold, and it was particularly chilly for me when I came because my school is in the north and the north is significantly colder than anywhere else here.

I came in January, and by February, I was already seeing heaps of snow. It was sweet in the first 2-3 days, and after that, I was begging the snow to stop. It was so cold, and it made everything messy.

If you’re coming here to live or study, especially in the north, please come prepared with jackets, socks, and gloves to stay warm. It’s quite important.

What’s your piece of advice for people looking to move to the UK?

I would like them to know that leaving Nigeria is not an instant success, but it eventually works out.

Secondly, it’s important to recognise that journeys differ; you might have it easier or harder, but that’s just how life goes. I didn’t realise this earlier; I had spoken to some of my friends who had it easier and believed it’d be the same for me. It took me about three months to get a job, and in that time, I was changing naira to pounds to pay my bills, and it felt like I was bleeding; it hurt so much I considered going back home. But I stayed back, and it worked out. Everyone’s journey might not be the same, but it’ll always work out; as long as you’re focused and you’re determined that you know where you’re going, you definitely come out smiling.

So keep learning. Meet people. Don’t be scared to meet people. Meet people, ask questions, create a community for yourself, and help each other. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve gotten help, like job referrals and interview prep from people I met on LinkedIn, at church, and in other places.

On a scale of one to ten, how would you rate the UK in comparison to Nigeria?

It’s a 9.9. It’d have been a solid ten, but I miss my siblings and my mom. It might sound crazy, but I also miss the heat in Nigeria.

Ah, the heat?

I do miss the heat. Trust me, you would too if you were here. I wish we could exchange weather. It’s the only thing I don’t like about living here. Other than that, it’s a ten. I remember watching UK movies back home and imagining myself living in the cities they were set in. It’s so thrilling that I get to live here and see them.

Love that for you. You’re having a great time. I wish you the best of luck

Thank you!

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There’s a version of a bride we all recognise: polished, predictable, almost rehearsed. The lace, the corset, what a bride should look like. But what happens when someone decides we do not all have to look the same? Elizabeth Adedeji isn’t just asking that question; she’s answering it, one stitch at a time.

Through 21 Wool Street, she’s turning crochet into something far more expansive than craft, using it to create bridal pieces that feel personal, intentional, and deeply lived-in. For the bride who wants to look like herself, not what is expected, Elizabeth is quietly and steadily widening what’s possible.

Can you tell me the story of how you started 21 Wool Street? What moment or experience made you realise crochet could be more than a hobby and become a brand?

I started 21 Wool Street in 2017, but the seeds were planted a bit earlier. Before then, I was just having fun with crochet as a little hobby. Then I started seeing more people experimenting with it as clothing pieces that looked more modern and fitting for our generation on YouTube and Instagram, and I was curious. I started creating tops, skirts, and more.

In 2016, one of my friends reached out because she needed something to wear to the beach. I had already made a crochet beach outfit for myself, so I made the same design in burgundy monochrome for her, and she got so many compliments. I remember thinking, “Wait, people will actually pay for this?” From there, I started making pieces for classmates at university, receiving orders and referrals, and it slowly became clear that this wasn’t just a hobby. It was something people connected to, valued, and wanted more of, and that’s when 21 Wool Street began to take shape as a brand. The brand has evolved over the years, incorporating additional techniques such as macrame into our designs.

When did you rebrand to bridal crochet?

I’d like to clarify that the brand doesn’t focus exclusively on bridal wear. It started with crochet beachwear, but evolved naturally in response to customer demand and our own creative direction.

As people engaged with the pieces, there was growing interest in how the craft could extend into more occasion-led designs, and into accessories like bags and earrings. Bridal is one expression of that evolution.

At its core, the brand is always building on what resonates with our communities. Crochet is an art form that allows for that kind of fluidity.

Can you walk us through how you chose the name 21 Wool Street?

I wanted something that captured multiple dimensions of the brand: its youthfulness and our use of sustainable materials. That sense of youthfulness is especially important to me because the brand is designed for both the young and the young at heart.

I think when anyone hears 21 Wool Street, they immediately think of community. A space where you fit right in because what we create was made with you in mind.

When people hear the term ‘crochet bridal wear,’ it can sound unconventional. How do you navigate that?

Yes, when people hear that, it can sound unconventional. But at 21 Wool Street, it’s never just about crochet; we’ve evolved to incorporate many craft techniques into our design language, including crochet, macrame, and eventually weaving. This has allowed us to blend texture, stitch, and material in ways that feel unique and personal.

What does crochet allow you to express that traditional bridal fashion doesn’t?

Our designs are for women who want to look different, try something new, and bring elements of themselves into what they wear. It won’t be for everybody, but if you’re looking for something distinctive, something that truly reflects who you are, this approach can be for you. Sustainability is also a key value; pieces can be re-worn, reused, passed down, or even sold. A lot of bridal fashion today can feel templated: the same corsets, fabrics, and silhouettes.

Craft-based designs are another way to stand out on your wedding day. And it doesn’t have to be the entire outfit: a veil, accessories, bouquet, or floral accents can incorporate craft artistry, bringing both individuality and sustainability into your celebration.

What problems do you think traditional Nigerian bridal fashion creates for women? How does your work challenge or respond to those pressures?

I think wedding culture, not just in Nigeria, but globally, has stripped a lot of soul, tradition, and meaning from weddings. There is so much pressure to look a certain way and follow certain rules without really asking why. It can push women into conforming, into appealing to one glorified aesthetic. If that’s your thing, that’s fine; it can be beautiful. But in Nigeria, there is a very specific ‘ideal’ bridal look, and if you step outside of it, you’re seen as strange or an outcast. That pressure makes people stop being themselves.

There is also a huge financial burden. People are encouraged to spend outrageous amounts on things they’ll wear once, not necessarily the best quality or even what they truly like, instead of thinking about their future, their home, or their life after the wedding. My response through crochet is about sustainability, reusability, and collaboration. Whether I’m designing a dress, veil, or bouquet, it’s a process that brings part of your life into the piece. It’s about creating something meaningful, not just expensive.

Do you see 21 Wool Street as part of a wider shift in how Nigerian women think about their wedding day?

Yes. I want women to start thinking about sustainability, rewear value, and reuse value, rather than seeing their wedding dress as a one-day thing. I want people to think of their wedding dress as a long-term investment, something you pour into and get so much more out of.

So, what kind of bride do you design for?

I design for women who want to stand out, who want something memorable, and for their wedding experience to truly reflect who they are.

When I designed for my sister, she wanted something retro, free, and comfortable, something that felt like her. Not just any crochet wedding dress would have worked. The fact that I, her sister, designed it was also an important part of the story she wanted to tell. So for every woman, it will mean something different. But it always starts with intention: Do you want something unique? Do you want something that reflects you? Does it align with your theme and your values? It’s for the intentional bride, someone who wants to be free, comfortable, different, and themselves, not what society says a bride should look like.

If you had to summarise the soul of 21 Wool Street in 3–5 words, what would they be and why?

Intentional — because nothing we create is rushed or accidental. Every piece is thought through, from concept to the final stitch.
Unconventional — a word deeply connected to how people perceive the brand and what we truly represent. We think differently. We design differently. We dress differently. Crochet itself sits outside the expected, and we embrace that fully.
Comfort — because the wearer is always at the centre of our designs. Can you sit in it? Walk in it? Breathe in it? How does it feel on your skin? Beauty should never come at the expense of ease.
Timeless — I’m not just designing trendy pieces; I’m creating pieces made to last. Pieces you return to again and again. Pieces you never get tired of. Pieces you’ll proudly show your children, nieces, or nephews, or even pass down to them.

Walk me through the process of making a crochet wedding dress, from idea to final fitting.

It always starts with a conversation. I want to understand the bride: her personality, how she moves, her comfort level, and the emotional vision she has for her wedding day. From there, I move into research, mood-boarding, sketching, and stitch testing. I search for the right yarn texture and colour for the design, create sample swatches where necessary, and once everything is approved, we move into constructing the piece.

The bride is kept updated throughout the entire process. Our bridal wear requires extensive experimentation with yarn choice, stitch density, lining, and reinforcement. These all matter. Sometimes the bride already has a clear design in mind, and my role is to translate that vision in a way that works structurally and aesthetically. Balancing structure, durability, and delicacy comes down to technique.

The final outcome depends on the design, the yarn thickness, and the stitch or pattern used. Because crochet behaves differently from traditional fabrics, testing and sampling are essential to understand what works and what doesn’t. I’m also very intentional about sourcing high-quality materials, because the right yarn makes all the difference in how the piece looks, feels, and lasts.

What’s the most challenging part of designing in crochet for brides?

I wouldn’t say I’ve had one major challenge. Most of the brides who come to us already understand the work to an extent; they’ve seen what we do, they trust the process, and they’re intentionally choosing crochet. So I haven’t really had to convince anyone that it works. If anything, the challenge is internal rather than external. Crochet is slow, and bridal timelines can be tight, so it requires careful planning and precision. Thankfully, we’ve had amazing clients who reach out with enough time to really work through the process properly.

Crochet bridal is often one fitting, sometimes with very limited room for adjustment, which means every stitch has to be done carefully and intentionally. I remember working with my first international bride in 2023. We couldn’t take measurements in person, so she worked with a tailor on her end. There was still that fear, wondering if the piece would fit perfectly once it arrived. Thankfully, it did. Moments like that remind me how much trust, care, and focus go into every piece, even when the process itself is working well.

What details or techniques are unique signatures of your work, if any?

I don’t think I’ve fully figured it out yet; there’s still a lot of experimenting happening, but there’s something about a 21 Wool Street piece that, once you see it, you just know it’s us. There’s a strong play on colour in our work, alongside bold stitches, sculptural sleeves, and thoughtful finishing. I like exploring how colour shifts a piece’s mood, making it feel softer, bolder, or more expressive. I’m very particular about durability: properly weaving in ends, clean edges, and paying close attention to how the piece feels against the body. My work may look soft, but it’s built to last.

You’ve said your pieces centre on individuality and intimacy. What does that mean in the context of a wedding?

It means collaboration. It means long conversations, research, getting to know who you are, what you love, and what you don’t. I use all of that to create something that feels like you. When people see the piece, they should see your story.

Do you see your work as feminist? If yes, how?

Yes. I see my work as supporting women’s rights. Fashion has historically relied on women’s unpaid or underpaid labour, fast production, and bodies being shaped to fit trends instead of the other way around. My work challenges that by slowing the process, valuing handmade labour, and creating pieces built around the woman without forcing her to fit into a standard shape or aesthetic. Sustainability is also part of that. Caring about the earth and the future is deeply connected to caring about people, especially women, who are often the most affected by environmental harm and unfair labour systems.

What kinds of reactions do you get from brides who choose crochet over traditional materials?

I’ll use my sister again. She wasn’t a mainstream bride. Even her traditional wedding look was inspired by our grandmother. The reactions were mostly positive. There was some critique, but people celebrated her individuality. She was very happy, and she’s still happy with how she looked on her wedding day. 21 Wool Street brides are very intentional. They know what they want, which is why choosing crochet over traditional materials is an easy yes for them

Can you walk me through a week or a day in the life of the brand 21 Wool Street and you, its founder?

My mornings usually start with design work: sketching, reviewing concepts, responding to client messages, and planning new pieces. If I’m in production mode, I spend hours crocheting, testing patterns, adjusting structure, and making sure each piece feels right. Some days are dedicated to workshops. I prepare materials, plan lessons, and teach people how to crochet, from beginners to creatives who want to explore it as a business or artistic skill.

On Saturdays, I volunteer at a school where I teach children how to crochet and create with their hands. In between, I’m delivering orders, sourcing materials, photographing work, going through emails, brainstorming future collections, and thinking about how the brand can grow.

You’ll Love: How Ore Akinde Turned Crochet into a Multi-Million Naira Fashion Business

What’s it like running a niche creative brand in Nigeria, especially one that asks brides to step outside the norm?

It’s very challenging because most people are drawn to mainstream fashion, big designers, and popular styles. Choosing to build something niche means you’re constantly asking people to step outside what feels safe and familiar. But at the same time, it’s deeply rewarding. We’re seeing a shift: people want to see themselves reflected in what they wear. They care about sustainability, individuality, creativity, and meaning.

The most rewarding part is seeing people choose my work for moments that matter, like birthdays, graduation, going on vacation, weddings, and watching them feel seen in what they wear. It’s also exciting to collaborate with other niche brands and creatives who share similar values. Opportunities like working with international brands — I worked with Toms when it launched in Nigeria — or being approached by people who are intentionally seeking something different, remind me that there is value in what I do.

What challenges or misconceptions do you often have to battle?

A big challenge is that running a business in Nigeria is already hard. Access to funding, inconsistent power supply, high material costs, and logistics all make scaling difficult. Beyond that, crochet itself is misunderstood. People see it as “just crochet” and expect it to be cheap or fast. But crochet is not fast fashion. It is slow, handmade work. Every stitch is done by hand, which means production takes time and care. Scalability is also a challenge because crochet cannot be rushed or mass-produced the way factory fashion is.

Another challenge is helping people understand the value of what they’re paying for. My work comes from a place of care, sustainability, and creativity, but many people still hesitate to invest in that. Access to quality raw materials is also limited here, which increases cost. All of this makes running a sustainable, handmade brand more demanding, but somewhat also more necessary.

How do you measure the brand’s success? What matters most to you beyond sales?

Success for me is not a number. It’s about impact. It’s about how we think about fashion in a world slowly being damaged by climate change. We all need to play a part, and one way is through the clothes we wear.

Success looks like: Teaching people to crochet; educating people about sustainability; helping women understand the life cycle of fashion; designing pieces that can be reworn, reused, and passed on. It’s about making crochet more mainstream, while showing that you can look beautiful and still care about the earth and your surroundings. For me, success is pushing sustainable fashion forward.

What kind of future do you imagine for the Nigerian bridal industry?

I imagine a future with: More diversity and creativity. Less exploitation. More collaboration and care. I want to see more thoughtfulness in how services are provided, more freedom for women to look different, and more celebration of individuality. I want diversity in fabric, style, culture, and expression, a bridal industry that allows women to truly be themselves.

What do you hope 21 Wool Street contributes to that future?

21 Wool Street helps widen the possibilities of what bridal can be. By introducing crochet and handcrafted techniques into bridal fashion, I want to show that there’s room for softness, comfort, and individuality alongside tradition. I hope the brand contributes to a more intentional, respectful approach to bridal design, one that values craftsmanship, honours the wearer, and treats creative labour with care.

What’s a dream project you haven’t done yet?

I have quite a number, my goodness! My dream is to make 21 Wool Street more than just a fashion brand; I want it to be a lifestyle. That includes creating products that fit into your home and blend craftsmanship with everyday living. I won’t say more than that for now.

We all have wild uni stories, but these Covenant University grads might just outdo yours.

From unbelievable rules to frustrating moments that felt straight out of a movie, they spill the craziest things that went down during their time on campus.

“They drug tested us in the middle of the night” — Desmond*, M, 33

“I never even found out what happened that night. I think maybe someone snitched that somebody was smoking on our floor, because around 1 in the morning, they called everyone out and made us go for a drug test.

It was unbelievable because we had exams the next day, and suddenly everyone was being marched out in the middle of the night to go pee in a cup. I don’t even know if they caught anyone, but the whole thing felt completely insane even by CU standards.”

“I almost missed an exam because of my moustache” —Labi*, 27, M

“The morning of my first paper, the invigilator wouldn’t let me into the exam hall. According to him, I grew out my moustache because I was feeling like a “big boy.”

He said I had to go all the way back to my hostel to shave it, or I wouldn’t be allowed to write my exam. I begged and begged, but he was like a brick wall. The second invigilator tried to plead on my behalf, but he refused.

Thankfully, the dean of my department was passing by, and I begged him for help. He allowed me to write that paper, but told me I wouldn’t be allowed to write the next one if I didn’t shave off my moustache. I stayed clean shaven till I went home.”

“I ran all the way to chapel for nothing” — Bisi*, 21, F

“One day in my 100L, there was a sudden announcement at 6:30 pm: ‘Head to the chapel for a special meeting with Papa.” We weren’t allowed to appear in casual wear, so we rushed back to our hostels to change.

Then came a follow-up announcement that the doors would be locked by 7:00 pm and attendance would be taken.

This caused instant pandemonium.

People were running on the road while buckling their belts and tucking in their shirts. No one wanted to find out the punishment that awaited whoever missed this special meeting. After all that, Papa showed up 2 hours late. No apology, nothing.”

“They tricked us into a compulsory drug test” — Sola*, 21, M

“Once, the school lied and told us we had an emergency meeting with Bishop Oyedepo at 9:00 pm that night.

They threatened that missing the meeting would be equivalent to missing a full week of school attendance. Getting to the chapel, we found out it was all a ruse for an impromptu drug test.

It was poorly planned, and no attendance was taken. People were tested up until 6:00 am the next morning, and they still had to go to class or face punishment. It was wild.”

“They shaved our heads!” — Zack*, 29, M to

“After one random chapel service, our chaplain closed the doors and brought in two barbers to shave the heads of all the ‘unkempt’ students in attendance. It was horrible. Some students jumped out of the windows and hid.

The rest of us were scared of getting infections from the clippers, which weren’t being properly sanitised between students. I got my head shaved, and I was angry the whole time.

It was such a big incident that year that it got on newspapers across the nation. It was really irritating and perhaps my worst memory from my time there.”

“They made my roommate retake his final year” — Lamide*, 21, M

“In my final year, my roommate caught a 3-week suspension, so he had to resume school later than the rest of us. Attendance is compulsory, and if a student falls below a certain threshold, they can’t write exams.

They didn’t factor his suspension into his requirements, so when final exams came around, he wasn’t eligible to write seven out of eleven exams.

There was no one he didn’t write to or beg. He got the same response: ‘There’s nothing we can do.’ His mum even came to school to try to sort things out.

He had to retake the year and pay the fees. Till today, I can’t believe they wasted a year of his life like that because of their own mistake. I hate that school so much.”

“Security accused my cousin of being a lesbian spy” — Temi*, 27, F

“I once begged my cousin who lived in Lagos to buy provisions and bring them to me in school. She came wearing a blonde wig and jeans. We were sitting outside one of the cafeterias when security personnel approached us to ask some questions.

They were aggressive and accused her of being a thief and a lesbian spy sent to destabilise the school. I was so confused. They even threatened to take her to their office.

I was scared, but my cousin stood her ground and refused to follow them. It wasn’t until she lost her temper and demanded to see their superior that they left us alone. It was a wild encounter.”

“The school made me miss two exams” — Derayo*, 22, F

“In 300L, I fell seriously ill with malaria and was admitted to the school clinic from Thursday to Saturday night. I was too weak to attend the chapel service on Sunday, and I assumed the medical centre would excuse my absence because of my late discharge time. They did not. They insisted that I should have gathered the strength to go for the service anyway.

This affected my attendance, and when exams came around, I was ineligible to take six of my courses. It was crazy. It took my parents getting involved before they finally revoked the ‘absent’ tag. Before they could resolve the issue, though, I’d already missed two exams, and that meant an automatic carryover. I hated how there was a blemish on my academic record that wasn’t my fault.”

“I almost got expelled because of a SIM card” — Mark*, 24, M

“Throughout my stay there, I hated the no-phone, no-SIM policy. The school’s Internet wasn’t reliable in my 300L, so I snuck in a SIM card for my tablet.

I went to visit my friend in his room one night, and they got a surprise inspection from the porters. I got searched, they found the SIM on me, and so began the most frustrating month of my life. First, the porters tried to force me to bribe them.

I told them I didn’t have the money, so they tried to threaten me with expulsion. When they saw I really didn’t have any money, they reported it to the authorities. I got suspended for three weeks, and the memory leaves a bitter taste in my mouth till today. That suspension almost ruined my relationship with my parents forever, and it definitely left a dent in my grades.”

“My Friend got suspended for his wallpaper” — Tare*, 30, M

They suspended a friend of mine because his wallpaper was a Pirates of the Caribbean poster, and they actually tagged it as “cultism,” as per he was in some kind of cult.

Another friend of mine got suspended for “pornography” because they found a picture of Beyoncé in a bikini top and jeans when they randomly stopped him and searched his laptop.

I always found it unbelievable, the titles they gave to offences, so they could justify the most ridiculous punishments.

GridLocked is a daily pop culture guessing game built for Nigerians. Every weekday by 9am, you’ll get six clues, sixty seconds, and an answer only a Nigerian would know.

Today’s GridLocked is a TV show.

How many clues do you need to get it right? 👀

Share your result when done, but don’t spoil the answer for others. (Missed yesterday’s GridLocked? Play it here.)

14 April 2026

Come back every weekday by 9am for a new grid or subscribe to Z Daily, Zikoko’s daily newsletter, to get new GridLocked puzzles, real Nigerian stories and other fun content in your inbox.

How to Play GridLocked

The Goal: Guess the answer for the day before time runs out. (The answer could be a Nigerian person, place, song, movie, or even slang.)
The Lock: You cannot type a guess until you have revealed at least one tile (clue).
The Reveal: Tap any tile to reveal a clue. Every clue describes the answer for the day. The fewer tiles you flip, the better.
The Clock: You have 60 seconds to guess right. The timer starts the moment you flip your first tile. (You get multiple guesses.)

The GridLocked Squares: What Do They Mean?

When the game ends, you see your guess count, total time spent, and the number of tiles flipped. The tiles are shown as white and purple squares.

⬜ (White) = A tile you flipped
🟪 (Purple) = A tile you left closed

The fewer white tiles you have, the better your result.

Best Result = ⬜🟪🟪🟪🟪🟪 | Guesses: 1 (Only needed one clue and one guess to get it right)

On the Streets is a Zikoko weekly series about the chaos of modern dating: from situationships and endless talking stages, to heartbreak and everything it means to be single in today’s world.

Dave* (24) has been in many relationships, but an emotional connection has always been the missing piece. While many people experience love and attachment, he has always felt differently.

In this episode, he talks about navigating dating without deep feelings and what he’s learned about himself.

What’s your current relationship status, and how do you feel about it?

I’m single and comfortable with it. I’ve realised that I don’t connect with people emotionally in the way others do. I often come across as the bad guy in people’s stories, but it’s only because I enjoy my space.

Have you always felt this way? Walk me through your dating history.

As a young man, I couldn’t relate when people talked about crushes and feelings. I had friends and was popular because I was into sports, but I was never into anyone to the point that it became something serious. At 16, I dated Ngozi*. People always suggested that we’d make a good pair, and some even said she liked me. I eventually just went along with it, and we became an item.

We did the usual things like holding hands and kissing, but I didn’t feel flutters in my tummy like my friends described. By the time we finished secondary school, I’d grown tired, especially of the effort required for keeping in touch. I eventually suggested we break up and remain friends, and I didn’t feel bad.

I see. Did it get better when you got to Uni?

Not for a while. There were many people I met and would consider briefly. But once we got into the talking stage and it started requiring emotional effort, I’d pull back.

The only time things worked was when it was purely physical. Anything deeper just frustrated me. But in 2022, I felt otherwise when I met Ummi*.

Tell me about Ummi. How did you meet?

Ummi was very likeable. We were both into sports and occasionally ran into each other within the school premises. After a while, I approached her, and we became friends. For the first time, I felt genuinely excited about someone. I thought maybe this was what people meant when they talked about being in love.

We had great chemistry, similar interests, and everything flowed naturally. Eventually, we started dating a few months into our friendship.

But over time, my feelings began to fade. I remember when she told me she loved me. I was happy, but I didn’t feel the same way. I liked her, but what I felt within me was far from love, even though I didn’t exactly know what that felt like. It didn’t help that we handled emotions very differently, and I started getting frustrated.

Curious, what exactly was this difference?

She was expressive, and I wasn’t. Things like holding hands, sitting close, or showing affection didn’t come naturally to me, and she assumed it meant that I didn’t care. She also wanted constant communication and sharing locations, which felt overwhelming for me. We argued a lot, but things really escalated 8 months into the relationship. It was also around our birthdays.

She went all out for mine by organising a surprise party and gifting me shoes I’d been saving for. I appreciated it, but she felt my reaction wasn’t enough, and that upset her.

During her birthday, which was barely a month later, I made a conscious effort. I planned a full outing and spent a lot at an expensive restaurant. But after everything, she asked where her gift was. When I said the outing was the gift, she got upset that I didn’t do enough.

She also complained that I didn’t post her on my social media till she nudged me. At that point, it felt like she just wanted to nag me, and that signalled the beginning of the end.

She became paranoid and falsely accused me of seeing someone else. But that wasn’t all, she also accused me of dating her for sex. Her words really hurt because I did care about her. Eventually, we broke up.

How did you feel about the breakup considering how much you cared about her?

I was hurt, but also relieved. The constant arguments were draining and a major distraction. I was in my final year at the time, and I had bigger fish to fry.

I wanted us to remain friends, but she refused. She said exes can’t stay friends and even told me to get myself checked because I was “emotionally dull”. That really got to me. I started wondering if something was actually wrong with me.

After that, we never really spoke again. Things were awkward whenever we saw each other until we graduated.

Got a story to share? Please fill the form and we’ll reach out.

I see. What happened after that?

I stayed single for a while. Then in 2024, I got involved with a friend, Favour*. She’s very open and curious, and we got closer after she moved near me. She’s also very social and made me leave the house more than I usually would.

One evening, we attended a rave together, and she kissed me. She also confessed her feelings for me, but I was quick to say I wasn’t interested in dating. But I liked being around her, so we agreed to keep things as a situationship. We spent time together, talked, and hooked up without pressure. I liked that I still had my space.

At first, it worked. But over time, Favour wanted more intention, proper dates and gifts. I felt myself slipping into the same pattern with Ummi, becoming avoidant and withdrawing at times.

Eventually, she noticed and said that she wanted to be open and see someone else alongside what we had. I agreed and didn’t feel jealous. I thought the arrangement worked because she was getting what she needed while I still had my space.

Did that arrangement last?

Not for long. After about five months, she started pulling away. I’d see her doing things without me, which felt strange because we used to spend a lot of time together.

When I asked what was going on, she said she hadn’t realised I was that uninterested in her and that everything had started to feel one-sided. I reminded her of my conditions from the beginning, but by then, she’d already made up her mind. She asked to end things to protect her feelings.

Hmm.

What hurt was how quickly she moved on. In less than a month, she was in a relationship with the other guy. That was when I really started questioning myself, especially because this wasn’t the first time something like that had happened.

I even considered whether I might be on the autism spectrum because I struggle with emotional expression. But after reading more, I’ve realised it’s more likely that I have some aromantic tendencies. Looking back, I can see the pattern in how I relate to people.

So, how have your experiences shaped your idea of love and relationships?

I’m learning to be honest about my capacity. Even if I struggle with romantic feelings, that doesn’t mean I should ignore other people’s emotions. I’ve hurt people by staying in relationships just because they were convenient for me.

Finally, how are the streets treating you these days? Rate it on a scale of 1 to 10.

I’d give it a 9.5/10. I enjoy my independence and don’t miss the stress of relationships. If I try love again in the future, I hope I have better outcomes.

Bee Shop is a brand-new shopping platform that’s going to completely change the way Nigerians shop online. Bee Shop is shaking up the e-commerce space by asking: what if shopping didn’t just end at customers spending money? What if it actually paid them back?

Wait, You Can Actually Shop for Free?

That’s right! Bee Shop is introducing a system that gives users 100% cashback on their purchases.

Instead of just buying an item and moving on, customers become “experience ambassadors.” That means when customers purchase an item, leave an honest review and post it on their social media, they get a chance to get their full money back.

But before you start planning your free shopping spree, there are a few rules:

Cashback is only available during three daily time slots: 13:00, 19:00 & 21:00
You can only participate three times per day

Bee Shop isn’t stopping at their cashback policy. They’re also rolling out a Brand Ambassador Program, where customers can earn commission when people sign up through their referral and make purchases.

Who Is This For?

Bee Shop is for everyone who falls into any of these categories:

You’re always hunting for the best online deals for international products
You enjoy posting reviews, unboxings, or lifestyle content
You love the idea of earning while spending
You are looking to create a passive income, and not sure where to start

When Does It Launch?

Bee Shop is gearing up for its official launch in Nigeria on 27th April 2026, and right now, they’re taking early sign-ups.
If you want first access (and a better shot at those cashback slots), you can pre-register here:
https://beeshopglobal.com/pre-register.html

GridLocked is a daily pop culture guessing game built for Nigerians. Every weekday by 9am, you’ll get six clues, sixty seconds, and an answer only a Nigerian would know.

Today’s GridLocked is a director.

How many clues do you need to get it right? 👀

Share your result when done, but don’t spoil the answer for others. (Missed the last GridLocked? Play it here.)

13 April 2026

PLAY NEXT GRID: Can You Guess The TV Show? (14 April 2026)

Come back every weekday by 9am for a new grid or subscribe to Z Daily, Zikoko’s daily newsletter, to get new GridLocked puzzles, real Nigerian stories and other fun content in your inbox.

How to Play GridLocked

The Goal: Guess the answer for the day before time runs out. (The answer could be a Nigerian person, place, song, movie, or even slang.)
The Lock: You cannot type a guess until you have revealed at least one tile (clue).
The Reveal: Tap any tile to reveal a clue. Every clue describes the answer for the day. The fewer tiles you flip, the better.
The Clock: You have 60 seconds to guess right. The timer starts the moment you flip your first tile. (You get multiple guesses.)

The GridLocked Squares: What Do They Mean?

When the game ends, you see your guess count, total time spent, and the number of tiles flipped. The tiles are shown as white and purple squares.

⬜ (White) = A tile you flipped
🟪 (Purple) = A tile you left closed

The fewer white tiles you have, the better your result.

Best Result = ⬜🟪🟪🟪🟪🟪 | Guesses: 1 (Only needed one clue and one guess to get it right)

Sunken Ships is a Zikoko weekly series that explores the how and why of the end of all relationships — familial, romantic or just good old friendships.

Deola* (32) and Demilade* (32) have been best friends since they were kids.

However, what started as excitement over her childhood best friend’s wedding quickly turned into a series of demands, expensive obligations, and hurtful words she couldn’t ignore. In this week’s Sunken Ships, Deola shares how being a maid of honour cost her more than money.

What spelt the end of your friendship with Demilade?

The way she spoke to me during her wedding planning after I had spent a large amount on wedding prep was what pushed our friendship downhill.

That’s sad. How did you meet?

We basically grew up together. Her mother and mine were school friends, and so we spent a lot of time together as kids and eventually became friends. We attended the same secondary school and became even closer.

What was your friendship with Demilade like?

It was great. We were like sisters. We told each other everything, and we always had each other’s backs in school. Even when we went to different universities, we remained close.

What changed?

In 2023, Demilade got engaged, and we began planning for her wedding the next April. Of course, I was to be her maid of honour. Everything was going great at first, then she started going overboard.

What do you mean?

Demilade was particular about how she wanted her wedding to go and, most especially, how she wanted it to look. She became demanding and started making unreasonable requests. Some of these requests were expensive, but if anyone complained, she would threaten to kick them off the bridal train.

Ah, that’s wild.

There’s more. She told me I would have to pay for a custom pair of shoes and use an expensive tailor of her choice for my dress. Just paying for my dress, shoes and makeup cost over ₦200k. I took it all in stride because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I wanted to do anything I could to make my best friend’s day special.

What happened after that?

A month to the wedding, she reached out, saying she wanted to throw a bridal shower. Usually, the bridesmaids plan the shower for the bride, but Demilade insisted on doing it herself. Instead of planning it, she wanted us to contribute the money. That wouldn’t have been an issue if she hadn’t billed each of us another ₦120k for it.

Whoa. How did you react?

I was honest with her. I told her I didn’t have the money. It was too far out of my budget, considering what I had already spent on wedding expenses. I told her I would miss the bridal shower but support them however they needed me to.

How did she take your refusal?

She got upset and kicked me out of the wedding planning WhatsApp group. She then messaged me privately to tell me off for being a bad friend. She said she was disappointed in me because my absence would throw off the aesthetic she was going for. She also insulted me, saying she wished she hadn’t put a miser on her bridal train. I couldn’t believe it.

What did you do after that?

I got upset and sent my mum a screenshot of our chat. She advised me not to react, so it wouldn’t look like I wished her ill during her wedding. So I held my tongue till after the wedding, but that was when I knew our friendship was over.

How did the wedding go?

It was a beautiful event. No one would have guessed that I had checked out of the friendship. I threw myself into my maid of honour duties. I wanted there to be no doubt that I did my part. After the festivities were over, I sent her a congratulatory message and soft-blocked her everywhere.

Did she try to talk to you after the wedding?

Yes, she sent me a WhatsApp message asking why I had soft-blocked her. I didn’t respond. She then tried to emotionally blackmail me by asking our mothers to intervene.

How did that go?

I turned down their attempts to reconcile us. I didn’t feel comfortable in our friendship any more.

Have you spoken to her at all since then?

I haven’t spoken to her since her wedding. Thankfully, she moved to another state with her husband, so I haven’t run into her since then either.

Do you miss her?

All the time. Walking away from our friendship was painful, but it’s gotten better with time.

Would you rekindle your friendship with her if given the chance?

I don’t think so. I’m not interested in being friends with someone who’s that obsessed with optics.

See what other people are saying about this article online.

Hey, if you’d like to share your own #SunkenShips story with Zikoko, fill out this form!

In this collection of over 250 appreciation message for birthday wishes, you’ll find thoughtful ways to say thank you without sounding repetitive. From short and simple notes to heartfelt and even professional options, each appreciation message for birthday wishes is written to suit different situations and relationships.

Short Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes

A short appreciation message for happy birthday wishes is perfect for when you want to say thank you quickly while still sounding warm and genuine.

Thank you so much for your kind birthday wishes, they truly meant a lot to me.

I really appreciate all the love you showed me on my birthday, thank you.

Your message made my day even more special, thank you so much.

I’m so grateful for your thoughtful birthday wishes, thank you.

Thank you for taking the time to celebrate me. I truly appreciate it.

Your kind words made me smile, thank you for the birthday wishes.

I felt so loved reading your message, thank you so much.

Thank you for remembering my birthday and making it extra special.

Huge thanks to everyone who reached out on my birthday! Feeling the love today and every day.

So grateful for all the sweet messages, posts, and calls. You made my day!

Feeling beyond thankful for all the birthday love from near and far. You’re the best.

I’m one lucky human. Thank you for the amazing birthday wishes!

Feeling surrounded by good vibes and even better people. Thank you!

Thank you for being a bright part of my birthday celebration.

I appreciate your sweet words more than you know, thank you.

Your birthday message meant a lot to me, thank you for the love.

Thank you for your thoughtful wishes, I really felt appreciated.

I’m grateful for your kind words and your love, thank you.

Your message added so much joy to my day, thank you.

Thank you for making my birthday feel even more special with your wishes.

I truly appreciate your message, it meant a lot to me.

Thank you for your warm wishes and for thinking of me.

Your words made my birthday brighter, thank you so much.

I’m so thankful for your message and your kindness.

Thank you for the love and the thoughtful birthday wishes.

I appreciate you taking a moment to celebrate me. Thank you.

Your message really touched me, thank you for the birthday wishes.

Thank you for your kind and beautiful words, I truly appreciate it.

I’m grateful for your message and the love behind it, thank you.

Thank you for making me feel special on my birthday.

I really appreciate your birthday wishes, thank you for the love.

ALSO READ: 100+ Heartfelt Long Good Morning Messages for Her

Long Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes

When a simple thank you doesn’t feel like enough, taking the time to express your thoughts fully can make all the difference. A long appreciation message for birthday wishes will help you reflect your gratitude in a deeper way.

Thank you so much for all the birthday wishes. Every message, call, and kind word truly meant a lot to me. I felt so loved and celebrated, and I’m really grateful to have you in my life.

I just want to say a big thank you for your birthday wishes. It honestly made my day reading through all the messages and seeing the love from everyone. I truly appreciate you.

I’m so grateful for all the birthday wishes I received. Your message stood out and made me smile, and I just want you to know how much I appreciate your kindness.

Thank you for your beautiful birthday message. It made me pause and really appreciate the kind of people I have around me. I’m grateful for you.

I truly appreciate your birthday wishes. It wasn’t just a message, it felt like genuine love and that meant so much to me. Thank you for thinking of me.

Thank you for taking the time to send me such a thoughtful birthday message. It added so much warmth to my day, and I’m really grateful for you.

I just want to say thank you for your kind birthday wishes. It made me feel special and appreciated, and I don’t take that for granted at all.

Your birthday message meant more to me than I can properly express. Thank you for your kind words and for being such a thoughtful person in my life.

I’m really thankful for your birthday wishes. It’s always a beautiful feeling knowing someone took a moment to celebrate you. I appreciate you.

Thank you for your heartfelt birthday message. It made my day brighter and reminded me how lucky I am to have people like you around me.

I just want to say thank you for your warm wishes on my birthday. Your message genuinely made me happy, and I’m grateful for your presence in my life.

Thank you so much for your birthday wishes. It was such a joy reading your message, and I truly appreciate the love behind it.

I’m really grateful for your birthday message. It made my day feel even more special, and I appreciate you taking the time to reach out.

Thank you for your thoughtful birthday wishes. It meant a lot to me knowing you remembered and celebrated me in your own way.

I truly appreciate your message on my birthday. It added something special to my day, and I’m thankful for your kindness.

Thank you for your lovely birthday wishes. It’s always a blessing to be surrounded by people who genuinely care, and I appreciate you being one of them.

Your message made my birthday feel extra meaningful. Thank you for your kind words and for thinking of me.

I just want to say a heartfelt thank you for your birthday wishes. It reminded me of how much love I have around me, and I’m grateful for you.

Thank you for your beautiful message on my birthday. It wasn’t just words, it felt thoughtful and sincere, and I truly appreciate that.

I’m so thankful for your birthday wishes. It meant a lot to me, and I’m really grateful to have someone like you in my life.

Thank you for your kind and thoughtful birthday message. It made me feel seen, appreciated, and truly celebrated.

I really appreciate your birthday wishes. Your message stood out to me, and I’m thankful for the love and thought behind it.

Thank you so much for your message on my birthday. It added so much warmth to my day, and I’m grateful for your kindness.

I just want to say thank you for your birthday wishes. It meant more than you know, and I truly appreciate you taking the time.

Thank you for your heartfelt birthday message. It made my day brighter and reminded me of how meaningful genuine connections are.

ALSO READ: 200+ Heartwarming Love and Trust Messages for Her

Heart-Touching Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes

Some birthday wishes stay with you long after the day is over, and they deserve a response that feels just as meaningful. A heart-touching appreciation message for birthday wishes will help you express gratitude.

Thank you so much for your birthday wishes. I didn’t just read your message, I felt it. It reminded me how lucky I am to have people like you in my life.

Your birthday message truly touched my heart. It wasn’t just words, it felt like genuine care, and I’m so grateful for you.

I’m honestly overwhelmed by the love I felt on my birthday, and your message was a big part of that. Thank you for making me feel so special.

Thank you for your beautiful words on my birthday. They stayed with me long after I read them, and I truly appreciate you.

Your message meant more to me than I can explain. In a simple way, you made me feel seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. Thank you.

I’m so grateful for your birthday wishes. They reminded me that I’m surrounded by real love, and that means everything to me.

Thank you for your kind and heartfelt message. It made my day brighter and my heart fuller, and I truly appreciate you.

Your birthday wishes touched a part of me I didn’t expect. Thank you for your kindness and for being so thoughtful.

I felt so much love reading your message. Thank you for taking a moment to celebrate me in such a meaningful way.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. It’s not just what you said, it’s how it made me feel, and I won’t forget that.

Your message was one of those that lingered in my heart. Thank you for your kindness and for making my birthday feel so special.

I’m deeply thankful for your birthday wishes. They carried so much warmth, and I truly felt it.

Thank you for your thoughtful message. It reminded me how much genuine love exists around me, and I’m grateful for you.

Your words meant so much to me. Thank you for making me feel valued and appreciated on my birthday.

I’m so thankful for your message. It wasn’t just a wish, it felt like a reminder that I’m cared for, and that means everything.

Thank you for your heartfelt birthday wishes. They made me pause, smile, and truly appreciate the people in my life.

Your message added something special to my day that I can’t quite explain. Thank you for your kindness and your love.

I really appreciate your birthday wishes. They came from a place of sincerity, and I felt every bit of it.

Thank you for your kind words. They didn’t just make me smile, they made me feel genuinely loved and appreciated.

I’m grateful for your birthday message in a way words can’t fully capture. Thank you for being part of my life and for showing me such kindness.

ALSO READ: 250+ Deep, Romantic Love Messages That Will Melt Her Heart

Funny Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes

A little humour can make your appreciation feel even more memorable. A funny appreciation message for birthday wishes let you say thank you while keeping things light.

My thumb hurts from replying to all the messages, but your wishes made me 10% younger.

Thanks for this heartwarming text! Crying happy (and slightly old) tears.

Thank you all, I’m so greatful! My ego is having the best day ever.

Thank you for the messages. I smiled, I laughed, and I ignored the ones that mentioned my age.

I appreciate all the birthday wishes. You all made me feel special… and slightly older than I’d like.

Thank you for the love. I’ve accepted that I’m ageing, but I refuse to act like it.

I really appreciate the birthday message. My back may hurt, but my heart is full.

Thank you for the birthday message. I’m now one year older and still don’t know what I’m doing with my life.

I survived another trip around the sun. Thanks for cheering me on!

Thanks for the birthday wishes! I’ll pretend it made getting older easier.

Appreciate it! Unfortunately I didn’t choose this adult life — it chose me.

Thanks for the nice message. With the economy, I can’t believe I’ve survived this long either.

Thank you! Feeling like a celebrity for the rest of today.

I’m grateful for all the wishes. I didn’t count my candles this year, for safety reasons.

I really appreciate the wishes. I’m accepting gifts all month long, by the way.

Thanks for the wishes! You’re one of the few who remembered without Snapchat reminding them —impressive!

Thanks for the kind words! I’m officially older and more confused than ever.

Thanks for all the stuff you gifted me sis, but could you gift me your good genes instead?

Thanks Boss! But apart from your kind words, I’m expecting a raise as my birthday gift.

Thanks for the kind wishes guys! Though I think work is what’s making me age.

ALSO READ: 100+ Heartwarming Long Good Night Messages for Her

After a birthday filled with messages, posts, and calls, a thoughtful response helps you acknowledge everyone at once. An appreciation message for birthday wishes on social media make it easy while still keeping things warm and personal.

Young person smiling while scrolling on their phone and typing an appreciation message for birthday wishes on social media.

I’m honestly so overwhelmed by all the birthday love. Thank you to everyone who took the time to message, call, and celebrate me. I appreciate you all so much.

Thank you all for the amazing birthday wishes. I felt so loved reading every single message, and I don’t take it for granted.

My heart is so full. Thank you to everyone who made my birthday special with your kind words and love.

I’m truly grateful for all the birthday messages, calls, and prayers. You all made my day more beautiful than I expected.

Thank you for all the birthday wishes. I may not reply everyone individually, but please know I appreciate every message deeply.

I felt so much love on my birthday, and it’s all thanks to you. Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful message.

Thank you to everyone who celebrated me yesterday. Your message meant more to me than you know.

I’m beyond grateful for all the birthday love. Every message, every call, every post meant something to me. Thank you.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. You made my day brighter and my heart fuller.

I really appreciate all the birthday messages. You all showed me so much love, and I’m thankful for each of you.

To everyone who reached out on my birthday, thank you. Your kind words truly made a difference.

I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who made my birthday special. I felt the love, and I’m grateful.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. I smiled through every message, and I appreciate you all so much.

My birthday was beautiful because of you all. Thank you for the love, the prayers, and the thoughtful messages.

I’m so thankful for everyone who took a moment to celebrate me. Your messages meant everything.

Thank you for all the birthday love. I felt it, I appreciated it, and I won’t forget it.

To everyone who sent a message, made a post, or called, thank you so much. I truly appreciate you.

I’m grateful for all the birthday wishes. It’s a beautiful feeling to be surrounded by so much love.

Thank you all for making my birthday so special. Your messages were thoughtful, kind, and deeply appreciated.

I really appreciate all the birthday wishes. You all made my day one to remember.

Thank you for all the love you showed me on my birthday. It didn’t go unnoticed, and I’m truly grateful.

I’m so thankful for the birthday messages. You all made me feel seen, loved, and celebrated.

Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes. I appreciate the love more than I can put into words.

My heart is full because of you all. Thank you for making my birthday feel so special.

Thank you all for the birthday love. I’m grateful for each message and for every one of you.

ALSO READ: 250+ Romantic Texts That Will Melt Her Heart (and Make Her Want You)

Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes (with Prayer)

Sometimes, the best way to say thank you is with a prayer. An appreciation message for birthday wishes with prayer allows you to wish good things back to those who celebrated you.

Thank you so much for your birthday wishes. I truly appreciate your kindness, and I pray God blesses you just as you’ve blessed me.

I’m really grateful for your message. May God reward your thoughtfulness and fill your life with joy and peace.

Thank you for celebrating me. I pray Allah blesses you abundantly and grants you ease in everything you do.

I appreciate your birthday wishes so much. May God continue to keep you, guide you, and favour you always.

Thank you for your kind words. I pray Allah grants you success, peace of mind, and everything your heart desires.

I’m so thankful for your message. May God reward your kindness and surround you with good things always.

Thank you for making my day special. I pray your life is filled with happiness, progress, and answered prayers.

I truly appreciate your birthday wishes. May Allah bless your efforts and grant you barakah in all you do.

Thank you for your thoughtful message. I pray God continues to uplift you and bring you good news.

I’m grateful for your birthday wishes. May God bless you with peace, favour, and success in every area of your life.

Thank you for your kind words. I pray Allah keeps you safe and grants you ease in all your affairs.

I appreciate your message so much. May God reward your heart and make things work in your favour always.

Thank you for celebrating me. I pray your life is filled with joy, love, and countless blessings.

I’m truly thankful for your birthday wishes. May Allah grant you success in your plans and peace in your heart.

Thank you for your lovely message. I pray God opens doors for you and grants you progress in everything you do.

I appreciate your kind words. May Allah bless your hustle and reward your efforts with visible results.

Thank you for remembering me. I pray God keeps you in good health and grants you long life and prosperity.

I’m so grateful for your message. May Allah grant you ease, protect you, and guide your steps always.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. I pray God fills your life with favour and makes your path smooth.

I appreciate your thoughtful message. May Allah replace your worries with peace and grant you success.

Thank you for the love you showed me. I pray God rewards you and gives you reasons to smile always.

I’m thankful for your birthday wishes. May Allah bless you with good health, progress, and peace of mind.

Thank you for your kind words. I pray God grants you all the good things you wish for others.

I truly appreciate your message. May Allah grant you barakah, protect you, and make your life easier.

Thank you for celebrating me. I pray God continues to guide you, bless you, and favour you in all you do.

ALSO READ: The 10-Second Text That Will Make Him Smile For Hours (200+ Options)

Romantic Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes from My Love

When your partner sends you a birthday message, it often carries more meaning than words can explain. A romantic appreciation message for birthday wishes from your love will help you respond in a way that feels intimate.

Thank you, my love. Your birthday message meant more to me than all the celebrations combined. You always know how to touch my heart.

I kept going back to your message because it made me feel so loved. Thank you for being so thoughtful, my love.

Your words stayed with me all day. Thank you for loving me the way you do, it means everything.

Thank you, my heart. Your message wasn’t just sweet, it felt like home.

I don’t think you realise how much your words meant to me. Thank you for loving me so deeply and so beautifully.

Your message made me pause and smile in the middle of everything. Thank you for always making me feel special.

Thank you, baby. Out of all the messages I got, yours was the one I felt the most.

I felt your love in every word you wrote. Thank you for always showing up for me in the most beautiful way.

Your message wrapped around my heart so gently. Thank you for loving me the way you do.

Thank you, my love. You didn’t just wish me a happy birthday, you made me feel truly seen.

I read your message and just smiled. You have a way of making everything feel softer and more meaningful.

Thank you for your beautiful words. They reminded me why loving you is the easiest thing I’ve ever done.

Your message was my favourite part of the day. Thank you for loving me in such a calm and steady way.

Thank you, my love. You always find the right words, and somehow they always reach my heart.

I felt so held by your message. Thank you for being my safe place, always.

Thank you for loving me so intentionally. Your message made me feel so cherished.

Out of everything that happened that day, your words stayed with me the most. Thank you, my love.

Your message made me feel like I matter in a way that’s hard to explain. Thank you for that.

Thank you, baby. Your love shows even in the smallest things, and your message was everything.

I don’t need a lot when I have you. Thank you for your message and for loving me the way you do.

Your words felt like a quiet kind of love I never want to lose. Thank you for being mine.

Thank you for your message, my love. It reminded me how lucky I am to be loved by you.

You always say the things I didn’t know I needed to hear. Thank you for loving me so deeply.

Your message stayed in my heart long after my birthday ended. Thank you for being so special to me.

Thank you, my love. If I had to choose my favourite gift, it would still be your words.

ALSO READ: 150+ Love and Trust Messages for the One You Love

Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes from my Family

An appreciation message for birthday wishes from your family is often more personal, as it reflects the bond you share with each loved one and allows you to respond in a way that feels sincere and heartfelt.

Mum, thank you for your birthday wishes. Your words always carry so much love, and I’m so grateful to have you.

Dad, I really appreciate your message. It meant a lot coming from you, and I’m thankful for your constant support.

My dear sister, thank you for your sweet birthday wishes. You always know how to make me smile.

My brother, thank you for remembering and sending your message. I truly appreciate you.

Aunty, thank you so much for your kind birthday wishes. Your love and thoughtfulness mean a lot to me.

Uncle, I appreciate your birthday message. It’s always special hearing from you.

Mum, your message made my day even more beautiful. Thank you for always being so loving and thoughtful.

Dad, thank you for your kind words. They meant more to me than I can say.

Sis, your message made me smile. Thank you for always showing up for me.

Bro, thank you for your birthday wishes. I appreciate you more than you know.

Aunty, thank you for your lovely message. It truly warmed my heart.

Uncle, I’m grateful for your birthday wishes. Thank you for thinking of me.

Mum, thank you for celebrating me the way you always do. Your message meant everything.

Dad, your message reminded me how lucky I am to have you. Thank you so much.

My sister, thank you for your thoughtful words. You always make things feel special.

My brother, I appreciate your message. It really meant a lot to me.

Aunty, thank you for your prayers and kind wishes. I truly value them.

Uncle, your message made my day brighter. Thank you for your kindness.

Mum, I’m so thankful for your birthday wishes. Your love is something I never take for granted.

Dad, thank you for always being there. Your birthday message meant so much to me.

Sis, thank you for your sweet message. I’m so lucky to have you in my life.

Bro, I appreciate your birthday wishes. Thank you for always showing love in your own way.

Aunty, thank you for your thoughtful message. It really touched my heart.

Uncle, I’m grateful for your kind words. Thank you for remembering me.

To my amazing family, thank you all for the birthday wishes. Your love means everything to me, and I’m truly grateful.

ALSO READ: 150+ Heartfelt Prayers for Your Boyfriend

Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes from my Friends

Friends often make birthdays feel more lively and memorable with their texts and energy. An appreciation message for birthday wishes from friends helps you acknowledge their effort while touching on the bond you share.

Group of Black friends laughing together while using a phone, showing an appreciation message for birthday wishes.

Thank you so much for your birthday message. You always know exactly what to say, and it honestly made me pause and smile. I’m really grateful for you.

I really appreciated your message. It felt so you, thoughtful, genuine, and full of love. I don’t take our friendship for granted at all.

Thank you for the birthday wishes. Out of all the messages I got, yours was one I went back to read again. It meant that much to me.

I saw your message and just laughed and smiled at the same time. You really know me too well. Thank you for always being you.

Thank you for celebrating me the way you did. Your message didn’t feel forced, it felt real, and that meant everything.

I appreciate your birthday wishes so much. You didn’t just send a message, you reminded me of how far we’ve come and how solid you’ve always been.

Thank you for your message. It made me think about all our memories and just how lucky I am to have a friend like you.

I won’t lie, your message stood out to me. It felt intentional and warm, and I really needed that. Thank you.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. You’ve always shown up for me, even in small ways, and I really appreciate that about you.

Your message made my day feel more complete. It wasn’t just a wish, it felt like real friendship, and I’m grateful for that.

Thank you for remembering and for taking the time to send something so thoughtful. It didn’t go unnoticed at all.

I appreciate your message more than you realise. It felt like a reminder that I have people who genuinely care about me.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. You always bring a kind of energy into my life that I really value.

I saw your message and just felt calm and happy. Thank you for always being that steady friend I can count on.

Thank you for your message. It made me realise how much our friendship means to me, and I don’t say that enough.

I really appreciated your birthday wishes. It felt like more than just words, it felt like you actually meant every part of it.

Thank you for celebrating me. You’ve been there through so many phases of my life, and your message reminded me of that.

Your message made me smile in a quiet way. Thank you for always being thoughtful and real with me.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. I may not say it often, but I truly value having you in my life.

I appreciate your message so much. It felt like you really saw me, and that’s not something I take lightly.

Thank you for your kind words. They stayed with me long after I read them, and I’m really grateful for you.

Your message was simple but it meant a lot. Sometimes it’s the people who know you best that say the most meaningful things.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. You’ve always been one of those people I can rely on, and your message reminded me of that.

I really appreciated your message. It felt like a small moment, but it meant more than you probably realise.

Thank you for the love you showed me on my birthday. Having a friend like you makes life feel a lot easier and a lot better.

ALSO READ: 250+ Powerful Birthday Prayers for Yourself and Everyone You Love

Professional Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes from my Colleagues

In a work setting, showing appreciation the right way matters. A professional appreciation message for birthday wishes from colleagues helps you express gratitude in a way that feels respectful.

Black professional in an office smiling at an appreciation message for birthday wishes from a colleague.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. I truly appreciate the kind messages and the thoughtfulness behind them.

I’m very grateful for the warm birthday wishes from everyone. It made my day at work feel even more special.

Thank you for the thoughtful messages. It means a lot to be surrounded by such kind and supportive colleagues.

I really appreciate the birthday wishes. Your kind words added a lot of positivity to my day.

Thank you all for taking the time to celebrate me. I’m grateful to be part of such a wonderful team.

I sincerely appreciate the birthday wishes. It’s always a pleasure working with such thoughtful people.

Thank you for the kind birthday messages. They made my day brighter and more enjoyable.

I’m grateful for the birthday wishes and the positive energy you all bring into the workplace.

Thank you all for your warm wishes. It’s a privilege to work alongside such supportive colleagues.

I truly appreciate the birthday messages. It’s great to be part of a team that values and celebrates one another.

Thank you for the kind wishes. It added a special touch to my day and I appreciate the gesture.

I’m thankful for the birthday wishes from everyone. It made the day even more memorable.

I really appreciate the birthday wishes. It’s always nice to feel appreciated in such a positive work environment.

Thank you for the kind words and well wishes. They truly made a difference in my day.

I’m grateful for all the birthday messages. It’s wonderful to be part of such a supportive team.

Thank you all for your birthday wishes. Your kindness and thoughtfulness are truly appreciated.

I appreciate the birthday messages and the warm wishes from everyone. It means a lot.

Thank you for making my birthday feel special, even in the middle of a busy workday.

I’m truly thankful for the birthday wishes. It’s a pleasure working with such considerate colleagues.

Thank you all for the kind birthday messages. They were thoughtful and sincerely appreciated.

I appreciate the warm wishes from the team. It made my day even more enjoyable.

Thank you for your birthday wishes. It’s great to work in an environment where people show such kindness.

I’m grateful for the thoughtful messages. Thank you for taking a moment to celebrate me.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. I truly value being part of this team and appreciate your kindness.

Thank you all for your thoughtful messages. I appreciate the kindness and encouragement.

ALSO READ: 250+ Happy New Month Messages to Your Love That Show You Care

How To Write A Great Appreciation Message for Birthday Wishes

Responding to birthday wishes with a thoughtful appreciation message can leave a lasting impression. The goal is to make people feel seen and appreciated for taking the time to celebrate you. Follow these steps to write a message that feels genuine.

Step 1: Start with a genuine thank you

Begin your message by clearly appreciating the person or people who reached out. Keep it simple and sincere so it doesn’t feel forced.

Examples:

“Thank you so much for your birthday wishes, I really appreciate it.”

“I’m so grateful for all the messages and love I received.”

Step 2: Share how it made you feel

Let them know you noticed the effort they madeGo beyond “thank you” and briefly express how their message affected you. This makes your response feel more personal.

Examples:

“Your message really made me smile and brightened my day.”

“Your message brought tears to my eyes, it meant a lot to me.”

Step 3: Add a personal touch or context

If possible, include something specific about your relationship or the moment. This makes your message feel less generic and more meaningful.

Examples

“You’ve always been attentive and this just reminded me how lucky I am to have you.”

“Messages like yours make me appreciate our friendship even more.”

Step 4: Close with a kind wish or reciprocation

End your message by showing goodwill and letting them know you value them too. This makes your appreciation feel mutual and complete.

Examples:

“I truly appreciate you, and I’ll always celebrate you just the same.”

“Thank you again, I’m wishing you the same kind of love and happiness you showed me.”

ALSO READ: 200+ Sincere and Thoughtful Apology Messages for Her

Short & Sweet Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A Nigerian man smiling after getting the 10 second text that will make him smile for hours

Sometimes the best texts are the short ones. Not because you don’t have a lot to say, but because a few honest words can hit harder than a whole paragraph. These short and sweet texts are the kind that take 10 seconds to send but will make him smile for hours.

Just wanted to say I love you. That’s it.

You’re my favourite person and I hope you know that.

Thinking about you right now. Hope your day is going well.

I’m really glad you’re mine.

You make everything better just by existing. Thank you for that.

Missing you a little extra today.

Hey love. I hope something good happens to you today. You deserve it.

You’re the best part of my day, every day.

I was just thinking about that thing you said yesterday and it made me smile.

I love the way you make me feel. Just wanted you to know.

You’re on my mind. Always.

I’m so lucky to have you in my life.

You make me really happy. That’s all.

Just checking in to say you’re wonderful.

I can’t wait to see you later.

You’re doing great. I’m proud of you.

I appreciate you more than I say out loud.

You’re my favourite thing to think about.

I’m smiling right now because of you.

You matter to me. A lot.

I hope you’re having a good day. You make mine better.

Just a reminder that I think you’re amazing.

I love us. That’s the text.

You’re exactly who I want.

Thanks for being you. I wouldn’t change a thing.

I’m grateful for you every single day.

You’re the reason I believe in good things.

I’m thinking about you and it’s making my whole day better.

You’re special to me in ways I don’t even know how to explain.

I just wanted to tell you I love you. So. I love you.

You’re the reason my day feels lighter.

I’m really proud of you. Just wanted you to hear that.

You crossed my mind and I had to tell you.

I hope you feel as special as you actually are.

You’re my safe place. Always.

ALSO READ: 250+ Deep, Romantic Love Messages That Will Melt Her Heart

Cute Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A young Nigerian man in his living room reading the 10 second text that will make him smile for hours

Cute texts have a way of making someone feel warm and loved without being too serious. They’re the kind of love messages that make him smile at his phone and maybe blush a little. On this list, you’ll find the 10-second text that will make him smile for hours because it’s light, affectionate, and just the right amount of sweet.

You’re cute. Just thought you should know.

I like your face. And your personality. But also your face.

You make me do that thing where I smile at my phone like an idiot.

I was going to play it cool today but then I thought about you and now I’m texting you. So. Hi.

You’re my favourite distraction.

I just wanted to interrupt your day to tell you that you’re adorable.

You have no idea how much I think about you. It’s honestly a little embarrassing.

I hope you know you make my heart do weird happy things.

I’m convinced you’re the cutest person alive and I will not be taking questions at this time.

You looked really good today. Like, distractingly good.

I just laughed thinking about something you said yesterday. You’re funny and I like you.

You’re the kind of person I want to tell everything to.

I like how you make even boring things feel fun.

You’re my favourite human and it’s not even close.

I miss your face. And your laugh. And you in general.

You’re doing that thing again where you’re perfect and I’m obsessed.

I can’t stop smiling when I’m around you and it’s your fault.

You’re genuinely one of the best things that’s happened to me.

I like you so much it’s actually ridiculous.

You make my whole day better just by being in it.

I hope you’re having a good day because you deserve one.

I’m trying to focus on work but I keep thinking about you instead. This is your fault.

You’re cute when you’re concentrating on something. Just so you know.

I like the way you look at me. It makes me feel like I’m someone worth looking at.

You’re the reason I’m in a good mood today.

I think about you more than I probably should and I’m okay with that.

You’re my favourite person to waste time with.

I just wanted to remind you that you’re really, really great.

You make me laugh in a way that no one else does.

I’m so glad you exist.

You’re my comfort person and I don’t say that enough.

I like everything about you. Even the weird stuff. Especially the weird stuff.

You’re the person I want to share everything with.

I’m smiling because of you and I thought you should know.

ALSO READ: 200+ Heartwarming Love and Trust Messages for Her

Flirty Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A young Nigerian man reading the 10 second text that will make him smile for hours

So you want to tease him a little and make him burn for your touch? Flirty texts are just right for the job. These flirty 10-second texts will make him smile for hours because they remind him just how into him you really are.

I can’t stop thinking about you and honestly I’m not even trying to stop.

You looked really good today. Like, I’m still thinking about it.

I have a confession: I’m a little bit obsessed with you.

You’re extremely attractive and I think you should know that.

I just wanted to let you know that I’m very into you. In case that wasn’t obvious.

You’re the reason I keep checking my phone every five minutes.

I miss you. And by miss you, I mean I really, really miss you.

You have this way of making me smile just by existing. It’s annoying. Keep doing it.

I’m trying to be normal about how attractive you are but it’s not working.

You’re on my mind in a way that’s honestly distracting.

I can’t wait to see you. And by see you, I mean be near you in any capacity.

You make me feel things I didn’t know I could feel. It’s unfair.

I’m having very specific thoughts about you right now.

You’re cute when you’re not trying to be, which is always.

I like you in that specific way where I think about you constantly and it’s becoming a problem.

You’re dangerously good-looking and I think someone should tell you.

I hope you know I think about you more than is probably reasonable.

You’re the best part of my day and also the reason I’m distracted all day.

I was trying to focus but then I started thinking about you and now here we are.

You have no idea what you do to me and honestly that makes it worse.

I like the way you look at me. It makes me want to be around you all the time.

You’re the only person I want to talk to right now. And most of the time, actually.

I’m very attracted to you and I thought you should be aware of that information.

You’re making it very hard to concentrate on anything that isn’t you.

I miss your face. And your hands. And everything else about you.

You’re unfairly attractive and I’m trying to be normal about it.

I can’t stop thinking about the last time I saw you.

You make me want to be the kind of person who sends cute texts. Clearly it’s working.

I like you a concerning amount. Just thought you should know.

You’re the reason I smile at my phone like an idiot in public.

I like you in ways that are probably obvious but I’m telling you anyway.

You’re perfect. Like, genuinely. And I’m not just saying that.

I think about you way more than what’s probably considered normal.

You do things to me that I don’t know how to explain in a text.

ALSO READ: 250+ Romantic Texts That Will Melt Her Heart (and Make Her Want You)

Good Morning Romantic Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A good morning message sets the tone for someone’s entire day. On this list, you’ll find the 10-second text that will make him smile for hours after rolling out of bed because they are warm, romantic, and genuine.

Good morning love! I hope today is kind to you.

Woke up thinking about you. Hope you slept well.

Good morning to my favourite person. Have a great day.

Morning sweety! Just wanted to remind you that I love you before your day gets busy.

Good morning, handsome. I hope something really good happens to you today.

Waking up knowing you’re mine makes every morning better. Good morning!

Good morning, darling! I can’t wait to see you later.

Morning! I hope your day is as good as you make mine every single day.

Good morning, love. You’re the first thing I thought about when I woke up.

Just wanted to say good morning and that I’m thinking about you.

Good morning, my king! I hope today brings you something that makes you smile.

Morning babe! You make my mornings better just by existing.

Good morning to the person I’d rather wake up next to every single day.

Hope you have a great day today. You deserve it. Good morning!

Good morning! I’m already looking forward to hearing about your day later.

Morning, love. I hope today is easier than yesterday and better than you expect.

Good morning, hun! Just a reminder that you’re amazing and I’m lucky to have you.

Woke up grateful for you. Good morning!

Good morning! I hope you know how much you mean to me.

Morning, my treasure! I’m sending you good energy for whatever today throws at you.

Good morning to the person who makes every day feel worth waking up for.

Just wanted to say good morning before your day gets started. I love you.

Good morning, ife mi! I hope today goes exactly the way you want it to.

Morning dear! You’re the reason I wake up in a good mood.

Good morning, babe. I hope you feel as loved today as you actually are.

Morning! Just wanted to remind you that I’m proud of you and I’m rooting for you today.

Good morning to my person. Have the best day.

Morning lover! I miss you already and you just woke up.

Good morning! I hope today surprises you with something wonderful.

Woke up and you were the first thing on my mind. Good morning, love.

Good morning! I hope you wake up feeling as loved as you are.

Morning! Just wanted to start your day by reminding you how much you matter to me.

Good morning, sugar! You’re my favourite part of every day.

ALSO READ: 150+ Heartfelt Prayers for Your Boyfriend

Good Night Romantic Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A good night message is the last thing he sees before he goes to sleep, and if you send the right one, it’s the kind of text that will make him smile for hours, even into the next morning.

Good night, darling. I hope you sleep well and wake up feeling rested.

Sweet dreams. I’ll be thinking about you.

Good night, love. Thank you for making today better just by being in it.

Sleep well, my love. I can’t wait to talk to you tomorrow.

Good night! You’re the last thing I’m thinking about before I fall asleep.

Sweet dreams to my favourite person. I hope tomorrow is good to you.

Good night, babe. I hope you know how much I love you.

Sleep tight. I’m so glad you’re mine.

Good night, love. I hope you have the kind of sleep where you wake up actually feeling good.

Sweet dreams, love. I miss you already.

Good night, my love. Thank you for being exactly who you are.

Sleep well, darling. I’m grateful for you every single day.

Good night! I hope you dream about something that makes you happy.

Sweet dreams, my love. You made my day better just by existing in it.

Good night, love. I’ll see you tomorrow and I’m already excited about it.

Sleep tight. You’re my favourite person and I hope you know that.

Good night! I love you more than I say out loud.

Sweet dreams to the person who makes everything feel lighter.

Good night, babe. I hope tomorrow is as good to you as you are to me.

Sleep well, love. You’re the best part of my day.

Good night, dear. I hope you sleep peacefully and wake up ready for a good day.

Sweet dreams. I’m so lucky to have you.

Good night, Ife mi. I can’t wait to see you again soon.

Sleep tight. You’re loved more than you probably realise.

Good night, love. Thank you for making me feel like the luckiest person alive.

Sweet dreams. I hope you know how much you mean to me.

Good night, baby boy. I’m thinking about you and I hope you feel it.

Sleep well, babe. You’re my safe place.

Good night! I hope you have dreams as wonderful as you are.

Sweet dreams, love. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. I love you.

ALSO READ: 150+ Romantic Good Night Messages For The One You Love

Long-Distance Romantic Texts That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

A middle aged Nigerian man after getting the 10 second text that will make him smile for hours

Long-distance relationships run on texts and calls. When you can’t be in the same room, the right message becomes everything. On this list, you’ll find the 10-second text that will make him smile for hours because they close the gap, even when the miles are still there.

I miss you. Like, a lot. More than I probably should admit.

Thinking about you from wherever I am. I wish I was there with you.

The distance is hard, but you’re worth every mile of it.

I can’t wait until we’re in the same place again. I miss you so much.

I wish I could just show up at your door right now.

Missing you extra today. I hope you feel it from there.

The hardest part of my day is knowing I can’t just see you whenever I want.

I’m counting down until I get to be near you again.

Distance doesn’t change how I feel about you. Not even a little.

I miss your face. And your laugh. And everything about being around you.

I hate the miles between us but I love you more than the distance is hard.

I wish I could hug you right now. Sending you one mentally.

You’re so far away and I feel it every single day. But I’d do this distance a hundred times over for you.

I miss the way it feels to be in the same room as you.

Every day without you feels longer than it should. I can’t wait to see you.

Thinking about the next time I get to see you is the only thing getting me through this distance.

I wish I could just reach through the phone and hold your hand.

I miss you in a way that makes everything else feel less important.

The time difference is annoying but it doesn’t change how much I think about you.

I hate that I can’t just drive over and see you whenever I want.

Distance is temporary. You and me? That’s permanent.

I miss falling asleep next to you. I miss waking up and you being there. I miss all of it.

I hope you know that even from here, you’re the most important person in my life.

I wish the distance wasn’t there, but I’m grateful you are.

I can’t wait for the day when we don’t have to do long-distance anymore.

Missing you is the hardest part of my day. Every day.

I know the distance is hard for you too. I’m here. Always.

I miss you more than I know how to put into words.

I wish I could teleport to wherever you are right now.

The distance doesn’t make me love you less. If anything, it makes me love you more.

I miss the little things. Your voice. Your laugh. The way you look at me.

One day we won’t have to do this anymore and I think about that all the time.

The distance is hard but you make it worth it. Every single day.

I wish I could fast-forward to the next time I get to hold you.

ALSO READ: 150+ Love and Trust Messages for the One You Love

How To Craft The 10-Second Text That Will Make Him Smile for Hours

Knowing what to text is one thing. Knowing how to make it land is another. This guide will show you exactly how to craft the 10-second text that will make him smile for hours. These aren’t complicated strategies or tricks. They’re just practical, honest techniques that work because they make your texts feel real, thoughtful, and unmistakably like you.

Step 1: Make It Specific, Not Generic

The difference between a forgettable text and one that makes him smile for hours is specificity. Generic texts like ‘thinking of you’ or ‘miss you’ are nice, but they’re easy to scroll past. What sticks is when you reference something real. A moment you shared. A thing he said that made you laugh. A detail about him that no one else would notice. Specificity proves you’re paying attention, and that’s what makes him feel seen.

Instead of: “I miss you,”

Consider: “I keep thinking about that joke from yesterday. I’m laughing about it again right now. I miss you.”

See the difference? The first one could be sent to anyone. The second one could only be sent to him. It’s specific, it references a real moment, and it shows that you were actually listening. That’s the kind of text he rereads three times and smiles about all afternoon.

Step 2: Text Him When He’s Not Expecting It

Timing is everything with texts. If you only text him good morning or good night, those messages start to feel like routine. But if you text him at 2 p.m. on a Tuesday just to say you were thinking about him, that catches him off guard in the best way. The element of surprise makes a simple text feel like a gesture. It shows that you thought of him in the middle of your own busy day, and that matters.

Let’s say it’s Wednesday afternoon and you’re at work. He’s probably at work too, dealing with emails or sitting in a meeting.

Consider this: “I know you’re probably busy, but I just wanted to say I’m proud of you. You’ve been working really hard lately and I see it.”

He wasn’t expecting that. He was just going through his day, and suddenly there’s this message reminding him that someone is paying attention and rooting for him. That text stays with him for hours because it came out of nowhere and felt completely genuine.

Step 3: Keep It Short and Easy to Read

The best texts that make him smile for hours are short. Not because you don’t have more to say, but because brevity makes the message hit harder. When you keep it to one or two sentences, every word counts. Long texts have their place, but when you want something to stick, keep it tight.

Instead of: “Ade mi, I’ve loved you through good days and bad ones, through soft kisses and silent fights. And even when we’re not perfect, I still want to choose you, over and over again. Never doubt my feelings for one second because they’re genuine.”

Consider: “You’re my favourite person of all time. Love you.”

It takes five seconds to read. But he’ll think about it for hours because it’s direct, honest, and doesn’t try to be more than it needs to be. Compare that to a paragraph explaining why he’s your favourite person. The long version might be sweet, but the short version is the one he remembers and rereads later when he needs a reminder that he’s loved.

ALSO READ: 250+ Thoughtful Appreciation Messages for Birthday Wishes

Step 4: Make It About Him, Not Just Your Feelings

Many texts focus on how you feel. “I miss you.” “I love you.” “Can’t stop thinking about you.” Those are all lovely, but they centre the message on you. If you want a text that reads like an appreciation message and really makes him smile for hours, flip it. Make it about him. When a text makes him feel seen and appreciated for who he is, not just loved because of how you feel, that’s when it sticks.

Instead of: “I love you so much,”

Consider: “You have this way of making people feel comfortable and heard. I don’t think you realise how rare that is. I see it every time you talk to someone, and it’s one of my favourite things about you.”

That text isn’t about your feelings; it’s about him. It tells him something specific about his character that you’ve noticed, and it makes him feel genuinely appreciated.

Step 5: End With Something That Makes Him Want to Respond

If you end your text with something open-ended, something that invites him into the conversation, it turns a one-way message into a moment of connection. It doesn’t have to be a question. It can be a thought, a tease, or something that makes him curious. When he responds, the text turns into a conversation, and that’s how a 10-second message stretches into hours of him thinking about you.

Consider: “I just realised you’ve never told me your most embarrassing childhood story. I need to know immediately.”

That text does two things. First, it’s playful and makes him smile. Second, it makes him want to respond because now he’s thinking about which story to tell. Maybe he texts you back right away with the story. Maybe he saves it for later and you end up talking about it for an hour that night. Either way, that one text opened the door to a whole conversation, and that’s what keeps you on his mind all day.

ALSO READ: 250+ Deep Love Messages for Him That’ll Melt His Heart

What’s your earliest memory of money?

Tell me more about your childhood. What were the finances like?

How did these changes impact you?

Was that the first time you worked to earn money?

₦4k per month is crazy

Right. So you stopped the job after school resumed. Did you try anything else to make money?

Why the switch, though?

Interesting. What was your income like at the school?

Why did you eventually leave?

Is the plan to job-hunt while studying?

How are you surviving right now without an income?

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Do you have a safety net, though, just in case?

How would you describe your relationship with money?

What kind of issues?

Hmm

People say identifying the problem is the first step to solving it. Do you think accepting your struggles might change anything?

Let’s talk about your typical monthly expenses. What do they look like?

You mentioned some savings which you used for accommodation earlier. I’m curious; do you have a specific approach to savings?

Is there an ideal amount of money you think you should be earning monthly right now?

You don’t consider your several vocational skills as skills?

Gotcha. What about something you want right now but can’t afford?

How would you rate your financial happiness on a scale of 1-10?

Where do you live currently, and when did you leave Nigeria?

What inspired your move in 2018?

When did you finish your master’s?

But you stayed in the UK after that. What’s behind that decision?

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What was life like for you before you left Nigeria in 2018?

Let’s talk about life in the UK. What was your experience when you first arrived?

What kind of activities do you get up to?

What tips would you give to someone looking to have fun in the UK?

You mentioned you love exploring Europe. What’s your favourite and least favourite country you’ve visited?

You’ve been in the UK for several years now. Do you feel you’ve hit the milestones in your plan?

Are there downsides to the move?

Have you been back to Nigeria since 2018?

Do you have a favourite December experience?

What are your go-to activities when you visit Nigeria?

Do you ever see yourself moving back to settle in Nigeria?

How do you feel about the political shift in the West and the rise in anti-immigrant sentiments?

What has been your worst experience in the UK?

Sorry for your loss. What has been your best experience?

What are your favourite and least favourite things about the UK?

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in the UK?

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

What inspired your decision to move?

Oh my. I’m so sorry to hear about your dad

What course did you study for your master’s?

What was the financing like?

How did you find out about Leeds Beckett University?

What other qualities were you looking for?

That’s nice

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What were your classes like?

That sounds fair. What was the application process like?

What were the requirements for the visa?

Can you remember how much the entire process cost you?

Did you use a travel agent for the process?

Do you recommend Leeds Beckett to people looking to study in the UK?

That’s really nice. Did you say you had a career in Product Management?

What do you currently do?

Awesome. What visa are you currently on?

What is the UK work culture like?

That’s so beautiful

What’s your favourite thing about the UK?

Lovely. So what’s your least favourite thing about the UK?

What’s your piece of advice for people looking to move to the UK?

On a scale of one to ten, how would you rate the UK in comparison to Nigeria?

Ah, the heat?

Love that for you. You’re having a great time. I wish you the best of luck

Can you tell me the story of how you started 21 Wool Street? What moment or experience made you realise crochet could be more than a hobby and become a brand?

When did you rebrand to bridal crochet?

Can you walk us through how you chose the name 21 Wool Street?

When people hear the term ‘crochet bridal wear,’ it can sound unconventional. How do you navigate that?

What does crochet allow you to express that traditional bridal fashion doesn’t?

What problems do you think traditional Nigerian bridal fashion creates for women? How does your work challenge or respond to those pressures?

Do you see 21 Wool Street as part of a wider shift in how Nigerian women think about their wedding day?

So, what kind of bride do you design for?

If you had to summarise the soul of 21 Wool Street in 3–5 words, what would they be and why?

Walk me through the process of making a crochet wedding dress, from idea to final fitting.