Quizzes

Stacks

Shows

Podcasts

Newsletters

Naira Life

Love Life

Hustleprint

Love Currency

Sunken Ships

What She Said

My Bro

So You Don’t Have To

Interview With…

Zikoko Memes

Jollof Road

Cholera Outbreak Update

Follow our socials

  • 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.

    When Opeyemi* (28) and Aanu* (28) met in secondary school, they bonded over novels, art, and a shared sense of loyalty. For years, they were inseparable, the kind of best friends people mistook for sisters. 

    But when Aanu started dating someone who Opeyemi tried to advise against, the friendship that once felt unbreakable suddenly began to fall apart.

    What was the moment you realised that your friendship with Aanu was over?

    When she chose her cheating boyfriend over our friendship and tried to blame me for straining their relationship, I knew then that it was time for me to stop putting my energy where it wasn’t wanted.

    That’s wild. Tell me how you and Aanu met.

    She joined our SS1 class in 2011 after transferring from a different school. We both liked art and novels, so we bonded very quickly. After a month, we became seatmates and stayed close till the end of secondary school.

    How would you describe those early years of your friendship?

    They were great. She was someone I could confide in, and I felt safe in our friendship. I believe she felt that way as well. We spent so much time together both in and out of school that if I went somewhere by myself, people would ask why she wasn’t with me. We were like sisters.

    What changed?

    We went to the same university after graduation in 2013, and with our new freedom, we started dating. The problem was that Aanu had terrible taste in boys. She always seemed to pick the worst ones. As her closest friend, I would support her as best as I could, but watching her make those bad choices was difficult.

    How did this make you feel?

    It annoyed me, but I gave her the benefit of the doubt. I felt that we were still young and learning how to navigate romance, so I stood by her. Things took a bad turn in our 300L when she started dating the worst guy ever.

    Tell me about that.

    He was a very good-looking and popular engineering student, a year ahead of us, but he was a serial cheat. His escapades were public and embarrassing. She was always crying about something he did, and I hated seeing her that way. After their first anniversary, he cheated on her again. When she came to me in tears, I encouraged her to leave him, and she did.

    That’s great. What was the issue?

    She got back together with him a month later but didn’t tell anyone. One day in October 2017, a mutual friend texted me asking if Aanu and her ex were still together. When I told her they weren’t, she said she saw them together looking chummy. I immediately texted Aanu to confirm if it was true.

    What did she say?

    She told me that he apologised and they talked things through. When I tried to tell her that the same thing would happen again because she kept giving him chances, she said I shouldn’t speak badly about her man.

    Ah. What happened after that?

    I was shocked and stopped replying to her messages. We didn’t see or reach out to each other for a couple of days. Then I reached out to her, asking to talk. I wanted to be sure she was making the decision to date him again with a clear head.

    How did the talk go?

    It never happened. She sent me a message saying that her boyfriend wasn’t comfortable with our friendship and that the main reason they kept having problems was that my constant advice was putting a strain on their bond. She rounded off the message saying that we should spend some time apart so she could focus on her relationship.

    Omo, that’s crazy.

    I kept rereading that message over and over. A girl I had known since I was fourteen was just going to throw our friendship away because of a cheating man? I couldn’t believe my eyes.

    How did you respond?

    I just replied with “Sure”. I didn’t want to force it, but I knew in my heart that it was the end of our friendship. 

    How did you handle the end of your friendship with someone who was like a sister?

    It hit me hard. For a while after, I was wary of letting other people in because I didn’t want to go through that again. I would see something funny or interesting and almost send it to her before I remembered that we weren’t friends anymore. It sucked. I still miss her sometimes.

    Did she ever try to reach out to you since then?

    Yeah, when we graduated in 2018, she sent me a congratulatory message and even invited me to her graduation party. I didn’t respond.

    Fair enough. Do you know if she and her boyfriend stayed together?

    I heard from our mutual friends during our service year that he broke up with her because he “couldn’t handle long-distance relationships”. 

    Do you think you can reconcile and rekindle your friendship with her?

    No, I don’t think we can be friends anymore. Even if we somehow started being friends again, it will never be the way it used to be.

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

  • Irete* (24) and Tinu*(25) met at a mutual friend’s birthday party and went from polite small talk to a full blown friendship in a short while.

    But, when feelings blurred the lines between friendship and romance, it complicated their new friendship in ways neither of them expected. 

    This is Irete’s story, as told to Betty:

    On a rainy Tuesday morning, a WhatsApp notification dinged on my phone as I struggled to get out of bed. Tinu’s name sat on my screen. But instead of the excitement I felt at the start of our friendship, or the butterflies I felt when we got even closer, all I felt was anxiety.

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

    Communicating with Tinu* wasn’t always that difficult. There was a time I told her everything. But as I stared at her message that morning, I had nothing to say. I only felt a deep wave of regret as I reflected on what used to be the good days of our friendship.

    ***

    When Tinu walked into the room at my friend’s party in July 2021, I almost felt time slow down. She was one of the most beautiful women I’d ever seen in my life. 

    I’d come across her social media profile many times, but this party was the first time we met in person. She was far better looking than any photos she had posted online.

    She oozed charisma in her flower-patterned dress as she made small talk here and there with other guests. Her arms jingled when she moved with the weight of the bracelets and bangles that adorned them.  Her braids were long and colourful, making it impossible to simply ignore her presence. When she walked up to me and introduced herself, our conversation flowed so easily, it was surprising that we hadn’t met before.

    During our talk, we realised we had so much in common — we loved pink, sappy Korean dramas and colourful accessories. By the end of the night, we realised we followed each other on social media and so began our friendship. Like I said, talking to Tinu was easy. Something about her made me feel safe about having hard conversations, sharing the most intimate parts of myself with no holds barred. 

    So, in August, when I saw some disturbing, sad posts on her profile, I felt obliged to ask if all was well.

    Tinu shared that she was going through a terrible heartbreak. Her last relationship had ended suddenly and left her struggling to hold on. I felt her pain as if it were mine, and I was determined to cheer her up. 

    I made it a point to check on her, tried to make her laugh, and even bought her little presents when I could. What I didn’t catch fast enough was that Tinu was getting under my skin. With every laugh, call and touch we shared, my heart was getting entangled in her magic, blurring the lines between a platonic sisterhood and deep feelings.

    ***

    One evening  in September 2021, while doomscrolling the internet on the couch, I came across an ad for a dress. It had a gorgeous floral pattern, and I immediately thought of buying it as a gift for Tinu.  In that quiet moment of making an unplanned purchase, I caught myself smiling as I thought about Tinu’s jokes, her kindness and her beauty. That was when it hit me: I had feelings for Tinu.

    I tried to keep my feelings a secret at first. As much as my heart yearned for something more, I wasn’t going to lose our friendship.  But my feelings didn’t go unnoticed. 

    Tinu noticed everything, the way my emotions betrayed my facial expressions and the messages that carried deeper meanings than intended. One Saturday, during a call, she confronted me with a question that seemed so simple yet unrattling: “Why have you been acting weird?” As soon as I heard the question, I felt cold sweat run down my back and the sides of my face. But my fear didn’t stop me from blurting out the words before I had time to consider them. 

    “I think I like you. No, I’m sure I have a crush on you,” I said.

    I expected an awkward silence, anger even, but she just laughed. Then almost immediately, she said she liked me too. Relief washed over me. At least whatever I felt wasn’t one-sided.

    But while Tinu and I shared a lot in common, it wasn’t just the good things. We also shared the same bad habits:  fear of commitment, poor communication and messy emotional patterns.. 

    After we talked about our feelings, we decided we didn’t want to ruin our friendship by getting into a relationship. So instead of dating, we became friends with benefits, who still blurred the lines between emotional attachment.

    ***

    Two months in, Tinu confessed her love for me for the first time. 

    We were alone in a quiet, dimly lit room. Tinu’s confession made my heart sing. I loved her company, the sound of her laughter and the way I felt around her. It was easy to say it back because I was also in love.

    Despite confessing our love for each other, we couldn’t make it official. Beyond the butterflies in our tummies and the glaring truth that we were deeply in love, neither of us could nurture a full-blown relationship, so our arrangement stayed the same.

    But things began to fall apart in November 2022, almost a year after I first found the courage to pursue what we shared. 

    I fell in love with someone else. 

    I’m polyamorous, and Tinu always knew. Still, she was taken aback when she found out I was dating another person. She couldn’t get past the fact that after almost a year together, we’d never defined our relationship, yet I gave someone else the “girlfriend” label in months. I tried to reassure her that she meant more, but she didn’t see things from my point of view. Slowly, our connection struggled, and after a while, we lost the easy click that defined the beginning of our friendship. 

    We eventually agreed to make up and return to being friends, but nothing felt the same. 

    [ad][/ad]

    I no longer felt the same giddiness when her name popped up on my phone; we went days without speaking.  It was heartbreaking to watch our friendship wither away the way it did. I regret everything and I miss the things that once pulled us together. The easy conversations, her laughter when I shared a dumb joke, the way we gushed at K-dramas. If I had known that my feelings would ruin our friendship, I’d have hidden them better.

    I’ve tried to rekindle our friendship, but it just isn’t the same. It feels like an invisible wall is holding us back from where we used to be.

    Through it all, I miss Tinu and what we once shared. 

    See what people are saying about this article on Instagram

    READ ALSO: He Called Off Our Engagement After a Prophet Said Marriage to Me Meant Death

  • Table of contents

    Short and Sweet Good Morning Message for a Friend

    Long Good Morning Message for a Friend

    Funny Good Morning Message for a Friend

    Good Morning Prayer for a Friend

    Motivational Good Morning Message for a Friend

    Good Morning Message for a Female Friend

    Good Morning Message for a Male Friend

    There’s no better way to start your friend’s day than with a thoughtful good morning message. Whether it’s to remind them you care, hype them up for the day, or simply crack them up, a solid good morning message for a friend can make all the difference in their day. 

    But let’s be honest, finding the right words can be stressful. That’s why we’ve put together a solid list of over 200 good morning texts. From short and sweet to funny and relatable, you’ll never need to stress about the right good morning message for a friend ever again. 

    ALSO READ: 200+ Merry Christmas Wishes for The People You Care About

    Short and Sweet Good Morning Message for a Friend

    A Nigerian guy smiling as he reads good morning messages for a friend on his phone

    Sometimes, you don’t need long essays to show your friends love. Short and sweet good morning messages for a friend are enough to let them know they’re on your mind.

    • Good morning, sunshine! Hope your day is as bright as your smile.
    • Wishing a good morning blessed with happiness to my lovely friend.
    • Good morning! Just want to let you know how grateful for you I am.
    • Good morning to the coolest person I’ve ever met!
    • Good morning! May today be filled with surprises that leave you smiling all day long.
    • Another beautiful morning to enjoy the blessings of life. Good morning!
    • Good morning! Here’s to another day full of opportunities and happiness.
    • Morning, g! Don’t forget to be awesome today.
    • Just popping in to say good morning. Go be great!
    • Rise and shine, bestie. You’ve got this!
    • Good morning. Reminder: You’re loved, you’re amazing, and coffee exists.
    • Hope your morning starts with peace and ends with wins.
    • Have a beautiful morning!
    • Good morning, superstar!
    • Today is a gift. Let’s cherish the present.
    • Remember to aim for progress, not perfection. Have a great day!
    • Good morning you! How did you sleep?
    • Wake up, superstar. The world can’t sparkle without you today.
    • Morning! May today come with small wins and big smiles.
    • I really hope you had a good sleep. Good morning.
    • Good morning to you, my one and only friend.
    • Today’s a blank canvas, friend. Paint it with confidence, boldness, and peace. You deserve a beautiful day.
    • It’s a brand new day, friend. Forget yesterday’s worries and walk boldly into today. I’m rooting for you, always.
    • Just wanted to remind you that today is another chance to be awesome.
    • Good morning! Go show the world your magic.
    • Hey friend, good morning! Sending hugs through the phone.
    • Wishing you a morning as wonderful as your heart, as bright as your dreams, and as calm as your spirit. Have a beautiful day ahead.
    • Good morning! Never forget how powerful you are. Now, get up and go show the world what you’re made of.
    • You survived yesterday, you’ll conquer today. Good morning, friend. Keep your head high.

    ALSO READ: 120+ Sweet and Thoughtful Good Afternoon Messages for Friends

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

    ALSO READ: 300+ Good Night Messages For The People You Care About

    Long Good Morning Message for a Friend

    A young Nigerian man in bed as he sends a good morning message for a friend

    For those days when a short text won’t do justice to how much your friend means to you, heartfelt, long good morning messages for a friend are the way to go. 

    • Good morning, my friend. As you step into today, I hope you remember how far you’ve come, how much you’ve overcome, and how much brighter your future looks. Let today be another reminder that you’re unstoppable.
    • Rise and shine, my dear friend. I hope today brings you clarity, peace, and the little joys that make life sweet. And when the tough moments come, remember — you’re tougher.
    • Good morning! I just wanted to remind you that you’re capable of doing hard things. You’re strong, brilliant, and deserving of all the good things life has to offer.
    • Top of the morning, big man. Thanks for being more than a friend. Thanks for being a sweetheart. Thanks for being a brother. I know I am annoying and can be a pain, but you’ve loved me still. Thanks for being a great part of my journey.
    • Good morning to a friend who never fails to make me smile! Every time I think of you, I’m reminded of all the happiness you bring into my life. I hope today gives you plenty of reasons to smile too. Whether it’s a small moment of joy or a big win, know that I’m cheering you on. You’ve got this, and I’m so proud of you!
    • I hope this message brings a little joy to your morning. You light up my life in ways you don’t even realise, and I’m grateful for you. Go conquer your day.
    • Good morning to one of my favourite humans. I hope you find reasons to smile today and that everything you’ve been working hard for starts falling into place.
    • Good morning, my dear friend. I know life gets overwhelming sometimes, but please remember you’re built for every season. Don’t let self-doubt creep in today. You’re stronger than your worries and better than you think. Go out and shine.
    • Just woke up & ngl, I got all smiley thinking about us. Girl, we’ve been through it all together & honestly? Wouldn’t change a single second! Like how did I get so lucky? Can’t wait to keep living this crazy beautiful life with you babe – here’s to making today another epic chapter in our friendship story! 
    • Hey friend, good morning! I hope you woke up with a light heart today. No matter what yesterday threw at you, today is brand new. Give yourself grace, take deep breaths, and remember I’m rooting for you always.
    • Good morning to the one person who reminds me daily what genuine friendship looks like. Thank you for being consistent, kind, and real. I hope today brings you the happiness you so freely give to others.
    • I know you’ve been tired lately, but I just want you to know better days are coming. Good morning, my friend. Don’t forget how far you’ve come; you’ve survived 100% of your worst days so far. You’ll survive today too.
    • Good morning, bestie! As you step out today, I hope you carry confidence, peace, and a pocket full of joy with you. You’re not alone in this life thing — I’m here always, cheering you on.
    • To my amazing friend, good morning! I hope today reminds you of your strength. You’ve conquered challenges people don’t even know about. So believe in yourself a little more today. You’re doing great.
    • Hey bestie, good morning. You’ve always been my safe space — the one person who listens without judgement. I hope today, life returns that kindness to you tenfold. Have a peaceful and productive day.
    • Good morning, my friend. I know some days feel repetitive, but don’t lose sight of how far you’ve come. Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s simply waking up, showing up and doing your best.
    • Morning bestie! I hope your heart feels light today and your burdens feel smaller. Even if nothing spectacular happens, I hope peace and small joys find you.
    • Good morning to my favourite human. I hope your day unfolds with beautiful surprises and quiet moments of gratitude. Don’t overthink today; just breathe and flow.

    [ad]

    ALSO READ: 200+ Romantic Good Evening Messages For The One You Love

    Funny Good Morning Message for a Friend

    A young Nigerian men sending a good morning message for a friend on his phone

    Life’s hard, but sending funny good morning messages for a friend can make getting out of bed just a little easier. If your friend loves banter, sarcasm or a good laugh, these hilarious good morning messages are exactly what you need.

    • Wake up, you lazy potato! The world won’t run itself.
    • I was going to let you sleep, but then I remembered; chaos needs its leader. Good morning!
    • Just sending a good morning text so you know someone loves you… but still expects you to pay back that money you borrowed.
    • If you’re reading this, it means you survived sleep. Congrats, champion.
    • Good morning, my star! Nobody can stain your white, you’ve got this exam in the bag, good luck today!
    • Kaaro babe, I had to leave before you woke up but thanks so much for letting me stay over. 
    • Shokoyokoto, that pepper soup last night banged like mad, let’s do it again next week!
    • Good morning, you! I can’t believe you’re already going back. I absolutely loved this holiday because we got to spend so much time together. Don’t be a stranger now, come home soon. I miss u!
    • Rise and shine! Or just rise… no pressure on the shining part.
    • Morning! Don’t let today stress you, stress is for people who have energy.
    • Wake up! The sun is out, the birds are singing, and you… are still in bed. Do better.
    • Hey you! You’re loved. You’re wonderful. You’re special. You’re unique. Don’t ever look down on yourself, okay? Have the best morning! Love you, always!
    • Rise and shine! Or at least, rise. Shining is optional till coffee kicks in.
    • Good morning to my partner in crime. Let’s go pretend to be responsible adults today.
    • The bed misses you already. But hey, rent won’t pay itself. Get up!
    • Good morning! I’d tell you to go be productive, but I know you’ll disappoint me. Love you still.
    • Rise and shine! Oh wait, you’re not a star, just a struggling adult like the rest of us.
    • Morning! Hope you’re ready to fight your alarm clock again tomorrow.
    • Wakey wakey! I’d say ‘don’t be lazy,’ but we both know that’s asking for too much.
    • Good morning you! The world is waiting for your greatness… or at least your attempts at it. Go out and shine!
    • Wake up, wake up! The sun is already shining, and your enemies are already at work. Don’t let them win!
    • You slept for free, woke up for free, and you still don’t want to say ‘thank you, Jesus’? You no get conscience?
    • Morning o! Don’t let your village people use sleep to hold you down today. Wake up and collect your blessings! 
    • Another day, another chance to make money or chop breakfast. Which one you dey go for today? Choose wisely!

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

    Good Morning Prayer for a Friend

    A Nigerian lady praying as she receives good morning messages for a friend on her phone

    Prayers go a long way, especially when sent in the morning. If you want to uplift your friend’s day with positive vibes and good wishes, good morning messages and prayers for a friend is the perfect way to start. 

    • May Allah (SWT) ease your affairs, grant you barakah in your work, and keep you protected. Good morning.
    • May your day be blessed with peace, joy, and divine favour. Good morning, friend.
    • I pray the works of your hands prosper today and your heart stays light. Good morning.
    • As you step into today, may grace speak for you and blessings find you.
    • I pray every challenge today turns into a stepping stone for greatness. Have a blessed morning.
    • May Allah’s rahma (mercy) and nur (light) fill your home and your day. Good morning, my dear friend.
    • Alhamdulillah for another beautiful morning. May Allah’s light guide your steps today and always.
    • Good morning! May today bring you closer to Allah and fill your heart with peace and contentment.
    • Good morning! May today bring you divine favour, peace, and success in all you do.
    • Bismillah! As you step out today, may Allah bless your efforts and reward your patience with success.
    • Good morning! May the Lord protect you from harm, open doors for you, and give you strength to overcome challenges. This is the day the Lord has made; rejoice and be glad in it. Wishing you a blessed morning!
    • My darling, I pray for you this morning that God Almighty will lead you to the end of this year and beyond in good health, divine protection and abundant blessings from above in Jesus Name. Amen.
    • May all we have been agitating for be our portions in Jesus mighty name, according to his words in Psalm 91 verse 5 to 9. Good morning and be blessed both in Nigeria and throughout the universe shallom! shallom! Shallom!!
    • Anything that will be a tragedy, mentally depression, mourning for some minutes, stroke, untimely sickness and death,  end of the  year house burnt, may God Almighty avert, abolish, destroy and nullify such before us at the  end of this month and year in Jesus mighty name amen. Good morning, my guy.
    • Hello my beautiful and adorable friend. My God will clear all impediments on your way to greatness in Jesus Name. He will silence all the lions roaring to devour you in Jesus Name. You will regain all lost blessings and glory in Jesus Name.
    • May your path be clear, your mind focused, and your heart filled with peace.
    • I pray God orders your steps and makes today better than yesterday.
    • Hope you’re having a beautiful start to your day! As the new dawn breaks, I’m sending you peace, productivity, and countless blessings from Allah. May your day be filled with ease and joy.
    • Good morning my friend. May you find unexpected help and experience joy that overflows.
    • May you never walk alone today. God’s got you, always.
    • Good morning my guy. I pray for strength, wisdom and favour for you today. Go in confidence.
    • Salam alaikum and Good Morning! May your awakening be filled with the remembrance of Allah, and may His light illuminate your path throughout the day. Wishing you a day brimming with Barakah and peace.

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

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

    ALSO READ: 200+ Good Night Messages for a Friend to End Their Day With a Smile

    Motivational Good Morning Message for a Friend

    Some mornings, your friend needs more than just a “Good morning.” They need a reminder to keep pushing, stay confident and face the day with energy. Motivational good morning messages for a friend can do just that. 

    • Good morning, babe. You weren’t made to shrink yourself to fit into small spaces. Keep expanding. The world needs your magic.
    • I know you’re still figuring things out, but you’re already inspiring people along the way — including me. Good morning, keep shining.
    • Good morning! The only thing standing between you and success is consistency. Keep going!
    • Good morning, my friend. I know the grind feels endless, but every small step is still progress. You’ve got this. Just take it one day at a time.
    • Each and every morning is like a blessing from the Almighty for which we must be thankful. Make sure you express your gratitude before you begin this new day.
    • You have another opportunity to make your dreams come true. Always start your day with a calm and composed mind. Have a positive day ahead!
    • Hey you. Today is another blank page, and you’ve never been one to shy away from writing your story your way. Go get it, babe. Good morning.
    • You’re proof that soft doesn’t mean weak, and kindness doesn’t mean naive. You’re powerful, and today is another chance to show that. Good morning.
    • Nothing worth having comes easy, but you’ve already shown you’re willing to do the hard parts. Keep going. Good morning, you’re destined for more.
    • The woman you’re becoming? She’s powerful. Keep showing up for yourself, even on hard days. Good morning my guy, you’ve got this.
    • I know chasing your dreams isn’t easy, but I’ve never doubted your ability to make magic happen. Keep going, you’ve got this baby boy. Good morning.
    • Hey man. You’ve overcome so much to be here; don’t let fear trick you into thinking you can’t go further. You’re built for this. Good morning.
    • If I’ve never mentioned, here’s me letting you know that you inspire me with your resilience every single day. Don’t forget how far you’ve come. Today is yours to conquer. Good morning, my bro.
    • There’s strength in showing up, even when you’re tired. You’ve been doing that, and I admire you for it. Good morning, you unstoppable force.
    • Every sunrise is a reminder that you have another chance to chase your dreams. Make today count! Good morning.
    • You’re more than your mistakes, more than your fears, more than the hard days. I hope today whispers that to your heart. Good morning.
    • You’ve been through more than most, yet you still show up with grace. I hope today shows up for you too — with ease, with joy, with kindness. Good morning.
    • Good morning you! Stay focused, stay grateful, and watch how the day unfolds in your favour.
    • Good morning my G! No matter how slow today feels, just remember that even ‘small small’ still reaches the destination.
    • Hey Chief. I know you are worried but, please, you don’t have to figure out everything today. Just take one step, and let tomorrow worry about itself. Good morning!
    • A journey of a thousand miles starts with one step and maybe a cup of tea. Take that step today! Blessed morning to you and yours.
    • No matter what comes your way today, keep your head up. The same sun that rises will always set. Nothing lasts forever. Have a blessed morning my bro.
    • Hey you. You’ve been everyone’s rock, holding people up even when life gets heavy. I hope today gives you the space to breathe and be held too. Good morning, dearie.
    • Wake up, superstar. You’ve conquered harder days, and I know today will be no different. Rise and shine!
    • Good morning! Remember, your dreams are valid, your potential is limitless, and today is yours to win.
    • May your morning be filled with courage and your day with victory. Go smash those goals, my champion.
    • You didn’t come this far just to come this far. Keep going, my friend. Good morning!
    • Another morning, another opportunity to rewrite your story. You’ve got this! Have a great morning ahead.
    • Don’t let fear or doubt control your day. You are made for greatness. Good morning!
    • I hope you walk into today with confidence, peace, and a mindset ready to win. Good morning.
    • Good morning, champion. Even the strongest warriors need to rest; but now, it’s time to conquer.
    • Every small step today counts. Keep moving forward, my friend. You’ve got this. Top of the morning to you.

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

    Good Morning Message for a Female Friend

    A young Nigerian lady composing good morning messages for a friend on her phone

    Your female friends deserve all the love and sweetness, especially in the morning. Whether she’s your sister from another mister or just someone you care deeply about, sending good morning messages for a female friend is a thoughtful way to brighten her day.

    • Good morning babes. You’re not here to live life small. Dream big. Love hard. Be loud about your goals. You can do it.
    • Hey you. You’ve been planting seeds of growth for a while. Trust me, your harvest season is coming. Good morning, I can’t wait to see it.
    • Good morning, queen. Don’t forget the world is lucky to have you.
    • You’re beauty, brains, and grace all in one. Go show them what you’re made of today.
    • Hey babe, good morning! Hope your day feels as soft and sweet as you are.
    • Sending lots of hugs to the most valuable asset of my life to wish a beautiful morning.
    • No matter how busy our lives are, I just want you to know how special you are. Good morning, my friend.
    • Morning texts are just a way to tell you that I think of you every morning. Good morning!
    • Good morning, my favourite girl. Go light up the world today.
    • Even though we’re not together right now, just know I’m thinking of you. Morning babes.
    • You may not be here in person, but you’re still making my day. Did you sleep well? Morning love.
    • Yes, we’re apart in location, but not in heart. I hope you have the best day my best girl!
    • Good morning you! I may not be there with you, but I will always be there for you.
    • Good morning, although I’m not sure how good it can be without me by your side.
    • You’re strong, smart, and unstoppable. Never forget it. Good morning!
    • Rise and shine, bestie. Your dreams aren’t going to chase themselves.
    • You’re beautiful inside and out, and today deserves to feel your presence. Good morning!
    • I hope your morning starts with smiles and ends with wins. You deserve it, love.
    • Good morning, darling. Let today remind you how worthy and special you are.
    • Sending hugs and good vibes your way, sis. Have an amazing morning.
    • Good morning, babes. I hope today reminds you how incredible you are. Never forget that.
    • Good morning, my dearest. The world feels softer with you in it. I hope life is gentle with you today, and everything you give to others circles back to you.
    • Morning my darling girl. Some people bring light into a room; you bring it into people’s lives. I hope your morning starts with that same light pouring back into yours.
    • Good morning, my queen. I hope today you’re reminded that you’re not just holding it all together — you’re thriving, even when it doesn’t feel like it.
    • Hey babes. You’re doing so much better than you give yourself credit for. I hope today reminds you of how strong and capable you are. Have a great morning ahead.
    • Your friendship has been a blessing; your laughter, your advice, your loyalty. I hope today blesses you right back in ways you don’t expect. Good morning my love.
    • Good morning to a woman who embodies strength and softness so effortlessly. Keep shining, even on quiet days. The world notices.
    • Good morning, you chaotic, beautiful human. Don’t forget you promised to drag the universe by its edges today. I’m holding you to that.
    • Babes, wake up! You can’t sleep through being iconic. The world is waiting for you to come and scatter everywhere with your greatness.
    • Good morning, my certified soft life ambassador. Remember: minimum stress, maximum enjoyment. That’s the vibe today.
    • Morning, you drama queen. I hope today is full of the good kind of drama — like free food and compliments from strangers.
    • Hey pretty girl! If you don’t leave your house today and make everyone jealous, I’ll be so disappointed.
    • Morning, bestie. Hope your day is filled with money, good food, and absolutely no nonsense from anybody. Love you!
    • Good morning to my emotional support human. I don’t know how the day will go, but at least I have you, so I’m good.
    • Good morning, love. I hope you have the kind of day that makes you randomly smile at your phone like an idiot; preferably because of me sha.

    ALSO READ: 200+ Questions to Ask Your Lover to Know Them Better

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

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

    Good Morning Message for a Male Friend

    Don’t overthink it;  guys like to feel appreciated, too. Sending good morning messages for a male friend is a simple but powerful way to check in and remind your buddy he’s valued.

    • Good morning, king. Go handle business like the boss you are.
    • Hey bro, wake up and show the world who’s in charge today.
    • Just reminding you that you’re built for success. Go smash your goals.
    • It’s easy to overlook how far you’ve come, but I see it. Your growth, your effort, your heart — it all matters. I hope today brings you quiet pride. Good morning Chief.
    • Morning man. May you have the kind of day where your mind is clear, your heart feels light, and your spirit stays grounded.
    • Thank you for always being a steady presence. Life gets chaotic, but your friendship has been constant. I hope today feels steady for you too. Top of the morning to you my guy. 
    • Good morning to a friend I deeply respect. Keep showing up, even on tough days. You’re doing better than you think.
    • Good morning, my guy. May today bring you small wins and big peace.
    • You’ve survived tougher days. Today is yours to conquer. Let’s go!
    • Rise up, champion. The world is waiting for your greatness.
    • Omo, wake up and jump start o. The world won’t conquer itself.
    • Good morning, you this stubborn human. Hope you’re ready to go and hustle like your village people are watching.
    • Bro, rise and shine. Life no go wait for you to press snooze.
    • Guy, wake up. Even your enemies are already at work.
    • Good morning, you legend. Go outside and be great… or just survive, that one too is OK.
    • Broski, another day to chase money, stress less and remind people who you are.
    • Omo, wake up. The streets need you. Or at least your bank account does.
    • Morning, brother. You’ve got the strength, the smarts, and the charm. Go make moves.
    • Don’t stress the small stuff today. You’re made for bigger things. Good morning.
    • Just a reminder that you’re unstoppable. Go show them what you’re about.
    • Good morning, boss. May today bring progress, peace, and a few good laughs.
    • Good morning, my guy. Never forget you’re someone people count on; not just for your strength, but your kindness. I hope today pours that same kindness back into your life.
    • You’ve carried so much on your shoulders, and yet, you never stop showing up. I hope today feels lighter and reminds you that you’re never alone. Good morning my guyest guy.
    • The world can be chaotic, but I hope today offers you a little peace, a little clarity, and a lot of reasons to keep going. Good morning, my bro.
    • Good morning to one of the realest people I know. Your honesty, loyalty and heart are rare. I hope life rewards you with the same today.
    • I know life hasn’t been the easiest lately, but you’re stronger than your circumstances. I hope today reminds you of your resilience. Good morning, Chief. 
    • Good morning man. You inspire me more than you know. Keep being you — grounded, dependable, and true. The world needs people like you.
    • I’m grateful for your presence in my life; your friendship, your advice, your calm. I hope today gives you back the goodness you constantly give out. Good morning.
    • You deserve more than just survival. You deserve peace, purpose, and soft moments. I hope today is a step closer to all of that. Good morning, my bro.
    • Just a little reminder this morning: you’re not alone. Life feels overwhelming sometimes, but you’ve got me, always. Go easy on yourself today bro. Good morning.
    • Good morning, my G. Please don’t forget how rare your heart is. You pour so much into others; I hope today fills your cup too.
    • I know life doesn’t always go as planned, but I hope today surprises you in the best way. You deserve good things. Good morning, chief.
    • Morning my G. I hope you have an amazing day! Counting down the days until we’re together again.
    • Good morning my bro! In case I don’t say it enough, I miss you.
    • I hope you have a great morning, just know you’re always in my thoughts. Love you, bro.

    ALSO READ: 150+ Birthday Messages and Wishes for a Friend

  • *Amina, 28, started hustling as a broke student in Northern Nigeria. By the time she graduated, she had built a thriving food business that raked in hundreds of millions in revenue. But success came at a cost. Even after shutting down the business to pursue a self-funded MBA abroad, she found herself constantly exploited by the people closest to her. 

    This is Amina’s story, As Told To Aisha Bello

    I didn’t set out to become “the rich friend.” 

    In 2015, I was just a broke 100-level engineering student, the first daughter in a family of four, studying in the North and trying to survive. I came from a decent background, but that didn’t mean comfort. My parents covered tuition, but almost everything else was on me. So, I did what I had to do: I started a small business.

    I sold crates of eggs to students in my hostel, then added bags of sachet water, offloading from trucks at odd hours, and selling them straight from my room. I advertised on hostel group chats and quickly became the go-to plug for essentials, enough to feed myself and stay afloat.

    I kept the food hustle going even as I moved into my second year. By 300-level, I used my savings to buy a deep freezer. Every day, at 5 a.m., I’d head to the local market for tomatoes, peppers, and frozen food: chicken, beef and fish, then portion and resell on campus. Good days brought in at least ₦15k profit.

    But it wasn’t enough. By 400-level in 2018, I spotted a bigger opportunity.

    I Branched Out, and Business Took Off

    I’d become known for my food: friends, classmates, and even strangers were placing regular orders. Demand had outgrown casual sales, so I opened a proper food outlet on campus.

    Setting up was tough. I needed about ₦2 million: ₦300k to build a shop, ₦400k for fittings, ₦1 million for stock and equipment, and ₦250k to lease a space.

    The money didn’t come easily. I sold my phones, leaned on friends, emptied my savings, and spent nearly a year putting it all together.

    In 2019, I opened for business, and it took off. I quickly became one of the most trusted vendors on campus, and demand exploded.

    I remember making my first ₦70k in one day. Soon, I was pulling in ₦300k- ₦400k in revenue daily, with profits averaging ₦100k, and ₦200k on really good days.

    Revenue far exceeded my expectations. I hired staff, scaled operations, and when the business peaked in 2021, I made close to ₦3 million in monthly profit. But it wasn’t easy. I barely slept between juggling school, managing staff, and running daily operations.

    In my final year, I bought a Camry, and it became clear to everyone I was on mad money. But I didn’t feel rich; it was all business money.

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

    My Business Hit ₦500 Million in Revenue

    After graduating in 2022, I scaled up: hired more staff, streamlined operations, and moved off campus. This opened us up to a broader customer base: everyday people and students from other universities across the city. Setting up this time cost ₦12.5 million, but it was easier to pull from my savings.

    We sold over 1,000 plates daily at ₦1,500 each, and with drinks and sides, daily revenue often crossed ₦2 million. Bulk orders from other vendors also added extra income.

    After deducting expenses, profits averaged ₦10 million a month. 

    I never tracked my total earnings that closely, but my 2023 bank statement showed ₦500 million in inflows, excluding POS and cash sales. That’s when it hit me: I was rich-rich.

    So I saved aggressively: ₦10 million in gold, ₦5 million in coral beads, art pieces worth ₦3 million, and nearly ₦100 million safe-locked in PiggyVest, which earned me up to ₦2 million monthly in interest, just for letting the money sit there.

    On paper, I was doing very well. But there was also the back-to-back billing. 

    How I Became Everyone’s Backbone

    In 2021, I started putting my entire family, including my grandma, on a ₦50k monthly allowance each. I also covered school fees of ₦600k and hostel rents of ₦250k–₦500k per sibling every year, and even supported struggling friends.

    It felt natural; I’ve always been a giver. I was doing well, so why should people around me suffer?

    But everyone started asking for huge loans: ₦300k here, ₦5 million there. I rarely said no. I believed they’d pay back, but many didn’t. 

    I’m still owed over ₦3 million, not counting the ones I’ve written off. Once, I sent ₦1.8 million to help a friend rebook a missed flight. Months later, she hasn’t mentioned repayment, and  I haven’t asked.

    I hate chasing people for my money. The only time I borrowed ₦1.2 million from a friend for an electric food display, I paid it back within three weeks, as promised. 

    So, I don’t get why people hold my money like I won’t ask or think it’s okay not to pay back.

    One friend even asked for ₦250k to leave an abusive marriage and rent a new apartment. I sent it immediately. Three days later, she casually mentioned she didn’t need to rent anymore because her family talked her out of it. “My friend, I’ve spent the money o,” she laughed.

    I told her I was disappointed and that spending the money was wrong. She sent voice notes apologising and promised to pay back, but it’s been seven months and she hasn’t mentioned it again. It hurt that she had little respect for how hard I worked for my money.

    Having money came with a creeping sense of insecurity. Neighbours watched too closely, eyed my outfits, asked for my wigs and clothes, assuming I could afford to replace them. 

    They’d whisper behind my back, question what I did for a living and doubt that my money could come from just a food business.

    I started to feel like a target. What if someone tried to rob me? What if someone was quietly plotting harm? Slowly, safety became a luxury I no longer felt I had.

    I wanted out, and a career pivot felt like the most practical escape.

    I Left Everything to Start Over

    With over ₦100 million in savings, I made a bold move: I converted about ₦48 million and paid $30,000 in instalments at one of the best business schools in the world. Then, I shut down the business, set aside my remaining savings for living expenses, and moved abroad for an MBA in 2024.

    Even Abroad, They Still Asked Me for Money

    The minute I left, the revenue stopped. But the billings didn’t.

    To everyone back home, abroad meant ‘richer’, no matter how often I explained that I wasn’t earning.

    The final straw came in April. 

    I was venting to a close friend about how drained I was. I told her how my mum recently asked for ₦500k and I refused, threatening to stop paying her kids’ school fees if she didn’t stop with the unnecessary requests. That’s how overwhelmed I was.

    I even mentioned how I’d just given my cousin ₦200k, hoping she wouldn’t return, but she was already asking for more. I got mad and blocked her.

    Less than 24 hours later, the same friend sent me a long message at 1 a.m. asking for ₦1 million. She promised to repay in five months. I hate waking up to billing. It ruins my day.

    This same girl owed me ₦100k in 2023 and flat-out denied it when I reminded her, but she paid anyway because, in her words, “you can’t lie about money.” It was awkward and embarrassing, but I let it slide. In January 2024, she borrowed another ₦200k. When she returned asking for ₦1m, and I brought it up, she said she remembered but didn’t pay because I hadn’t asked.

    What made it worse? She knew how emotionally exhausted I was, but still asked. She claimed she needed the money to repay a loan at her workplace so she could start a new job.

    I’d always been the giver in our friendship, and that used to be fine. I barely noticed who never showed up with a gift, but I couldn’t unsee it now.

    I felt so many things at once: anger, confusion, and guilt, and still said no.

    To be sure I wasn’t overreacting, I called our mutual friend. That’s when I found out there was no new job or office loan. She had bought a new phone on credit and needed to pay it back.

    A new phone? I haven’t changed mine in years.

    I was livid. I cried so much, hurt that she’d taken my friendship for granted, always taking and taking without consideration.

    A few hours later, I opened Twitter and saw her sub: “Just because you have more money than me doesn’t make you God. I’ll hold my peace, but never again. This isn’t how to do friendship.”

    I called her, said some things I don’t regret, and blocked her everywhere.

    If “never again” means no more billing, then I’m good.

    That was the moment I knew I was done.

    I’m Not a Bank

    I still have money stashed in PiggyVest, but with no new income for now, it’s slowly depleting.

    My MBA program costs $250,000 over two years, and I cannot work while studying. The rest of my tuition will come from whatever I earn once I’m legally allowed to work abroad.

    I’m not flush with cash. I’m budgeting carefully and deserve the breathing space to do that without pressure.

    The truth is, I was richer while I lived in Nigeria, and I had no problem giving money freely. But now, just being asked for cash triggers me.

    I’m done with money-centred friendships. I’m done giving loans. I’m not a bank.

    I’ll still support the people I choose to or feel obligated to, but I’m learning to say no without guilt. I owe it to myself to protect what I’ve built, and if that makes me the “stingy friend,” so be it.

    Editor’s note: Names have been changed for anonymity.

    Join 1,000+ Nigerians, finance experts and industry leaders at The Naira Life Conference by Zikoko for a day of real, raw conversations about money and financial freedom. Click here to buy a ticket and secure your spot at the money event of the year, where you’ll get the practical tools to 10x your income, network with the biggest players in your industry, and level up in your career and business.

    Also Read: I Lost My Best Friend When I Became the “Rich Friend”

    [ad]

  • Many Nigerians agree that the Nigerian dream is to move abroad in search of greener pastures. For most who have lived this “dream”, the hardest part is saying goodbye to old friends and opening their hearts to new connections — especially in a less community-centric country like the United Kingdom. 

    We spoke to seven Nigerians living in the UK about how they made their first friend in the diaspora. If you have recently moved or are planning to relocate, this article offers valuable insights to help you build and sustain meaningful connections.

    “Find people with similar interests on social media and connect with them” — Ben (London, UK)

    Ben*, 30, believes that social media is the best place to find friends when you’re a Nigerian living in London. 

    “I’m somewhat active on X, so sometimes, people recognize me when I’m in public.  I always see that as an opportunity to form great connections, so I go beyond the typical small talk people make. I ask questions about them, exchange numbers and promise to keep in touch, which I always do. And I’ve never been turned down by any of the people I’ve met this way. We all crave human connection, especially in foreign countries. I also love to observe people on social media, find out whether we have similar interests, interact with their content and reach out to them if I believe we’ll make good friends.”

    “Find a good religious centre near you “ — Aanu (Manchester, UK) 

    Aanu*, 20, dreaded the idea of starting over in a new country at first, but after finding a religious centre that prioritised community-building, she found it easier to settle into her new life. 

    “I had heard how lonely it was to live in the UK, so when my parents asked me to move there, I wasn’t exactly happy. But one random Sunday morning, I decided to attend service in any reasonable church I could find near me. I ended up in a Nigerian church and walked in while they were making a call for first-time attendees. They connected all the new attendees to a group called the Life Group, where I met most of my friends. Religious centres are great places to meet good people.” 

    “Try to connect with the Nigerians around you” — Odigo (Derby, UK)

    When Odigo*, 24, left Nigeria to study in the UK, she expected her jovial energy to attract people to her, but what she didn’t expect was an unspoken racial division in her classroom. 

    “When I noticed that other races sidelined the Nigerians in my classroom, I didn’t attempt to make friends outside my race. All I had to do to make friends with the other Nigerians in my class was to ask if I could sit beside them. I’m not naturally the nicest person, but I had to be more intentional about forming friendships with them. Sometimes, all you need to do is just say hello. If you notice that the person isn’t open to conversing with you, you can keep it moving. But if they are, ask for their contact details and be clear about the relationship you want to maintain with them.” 

    Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

    Subscribe to our newsletters and never miss any of the action

    “Your colleagues can be your friends” — Ebere (Birmingham, UK)

    Ebere*, 32, doesn’t buy into the “your colleagues are not your friends” idea, especially when she and the colleague in question share similar values. 

    “I made my first friend at work. I was lonely then, but I was also trying to be careful not to fall into the wrong kind of friendship out of desperation. First, I paid attention to my colleagues, observed their values and studied their character. The good thing about working with people is seeing them at their highs and lows. After studying all of them carefully, I discovered that Hanah was the colleague who was the best friendship match for me. I asked her if she was open to being friends with me outside of work, and she was. So, I started inviting her to lunch and other social events. We’re no longer in the same city, but we are still close friends. 

    “Don’t be afraid to make the first move” — Emeka (Bristol, UK)

    Unlike the other Nigerians we spoke to, Emeka*, 27, watered the friendship ground months before he moved to the UK to start his postgraduate studies, which paid off.

    “A few months before my resumption, my school sent an email assigning me to a stream. I could see the other students assigned to the same stream on the dashboard. Two Nigerian students were on that dashboard, so I searched for them on LinkedIn, formed connections, and sent them a message. We started talking on LinkedIn, and when we felt comfortable enough, we took the conversation to WhatsApp. I was still waiting for my visa decision and was recovering from the financial consequences of being duped by a fake travel agent. One of those Nigerian students I reached out to sent me some pounds to assist with my moving cost. So when I officially moved to the UK, we were already good friends. I highly recommend making the first move and being open to forming those connections before you even leave Nigeria.” 

    “Initiate a 15-30 minutes post-meet virtual chat with the people you meet” — Tomiwa (London, UK)

    Tomiwa* (33) doesn’t believe in using the word “friend” loosely, but he has a tradition that has helped him expand his circle since he moved to the UK. 

    “I made my first friend at work. I was alone in the 19th-floor cafeteria at my workplace, having lunch. I was the only one on a table that could take four people. One stranger came to the table and asked if they could join. With a big smile and a welcoming gesture, I offered the seat. A few minutes later, someone I had seen a few times at the office was passing by, and I invited them over, too. Before lunch was over, there were five of us at the table, and I became close friends with one of them. One tip I’d recommend is asking to take a picture with the people you meet, exchanging contact and initiating a 15-30 minute post-first meet virtual chat”. 

    “Don’t limit your friendship shots to one location” — Hakeem – London, United Kingdom 

    Hakeem*, 28, has never been able to relate to the “UK is lonely” theory, nor does he believe that solid friendships should be restricted to certain locations. He thinks that’s why making friends comes easily to him. 

    “I made my first friend here last summer. I was travelling to Birmingham, and I noticed this Nigerian-looking man walking towards me, and I offered him a seat. We started a random conversation that extended into one of my most cherished friendships. It went as most conversations went, and we discovered that we shared many beliefs, values and interests. I learnt that he wasn’t London-based and was only on vacation. As with all instances of friendship, I intend to build, I got his contact regardless, and we’ve been talking ever since.”

    ALSO READ: She Became a British Citizen Without Ever Living Outside of Nigeria

  • The ‘end’ in friendship sometimes comes quicker than we expect it but that doesn’t mean you should settle for situations that hurt you. Pick up your end of year scissors, we’ll show you how to cut off friendships that hurt you.

    Block them everywhere…except Snapchat

    The first step to letting go of a hurtful friendship is ensuring they no longer have access to your safe spaces (the ones you can control anyway). Out of sight, out of mind—but not too out of sight that they can’t see you living your best life.

    [ad][/ad]

    Hang out with your other friends

    Another way to ease the loss of a crappy friendship? Pour yourself into your other relationships. See why it’s important to leave them on Snapchat? Now they’ll see you having the time of your life with friends who aren’t crazy. Maybe they’ll reflect on their not-so-demure actions.

    Have a sweet treat, you deserve it

    Whether it’s ice cream, a large serving of suya, pizza or a big box of cookies, it’s hard to stay sad when you’re eating a delicious meal. Treat yourself to something decadent and forget about the stress that bad friend brought into your life.

    Pick up a new hobby

    Lagos is is teeming with fun activities for everyone. From archery to swimming and tennis, pick up a new activity that sparks joy and keeps bad energy far away. Who knows, you might meet new friends while at it.

    Affirm yourself

    Develop affirmations to remind yourself of who you are and what you deserve. Say things like “I am a good friend” and “I deserve good friends”. These affirmations will help you let go of bad friendships and look to the future.

    Listen to music

    Listen, it’s almost impossible  to stay sad while jamming to Rema’s Ozeba. Turn on some great music to shake those blues away!

    Retail therapy

    This is not financial advice, but you can tick something off your wishlist and let Christmas come early for you. There’s nothing more thrilling than waiting for a delivery driver’s call about your package. A gift from you to you—how thoughtful.

    Get more stories like this and the inside gist on all the fun things that happen at Zikoko straight to your inbox when you subscribe to the Zikoko Daily newsletter. Do it now!

  • Nigeria is moving funny, and the only respite most of us have is in the arms of our family and friends. If you’re like us, we’ve curated some ways to make it count while you’re having the time of your life with your friends.

    Put your phone down

    Believe it or not, the best way to enjoy time out with your friends is by putting your phone down and living in the moment. It might be hard, but if you can ignore the multiple calls, texts and social media notifications, we promise you’ll have a swell time.

    Play fun drinking games

    When has playing a drinking game not led to shenanigans and ridiculousness. We suggest you play “screw your neighbour” and make your drink of choice Jack Daniel’s whisky. It’s smooth and won’t have you feeling like what you’ve been through the next day.

    [ad][/ad]

    Social media challenges

    Something about making a fool of yourself with your friends while trying and failing to learn TikTok and Instagram challenges makes everything in the world right again.

    Try new things

    Make a list of all the things you’ve always wanted to try, and get your friends to join you in what may or may not be a series of bad decisions. You’ll tick things off your list, make memories with your friends and have a lot to talk about for years to come.

    [ad][/ad]

    Share the tea with a drink

    Drinking on your own is fine, but there’s nothing as good as sharing hot gossip with your friends over a bottle of Jack Daniel’s whiskey.

  • Love comes, love goes. But just because your best friend has left the shores of Agbado Central doesn’t mean the love you share should cease to exist. You deserve to keep your best friend, and we know just how to go about it.

    Threaten them

    Remind them that you’re the best thing since amala or jollof rice or sliced bread and fried eggs. Remind them you’re the only best friend they have in this world — even if they have five others — and if they abandon you because of a little distance, they will sleep and wake up to find you on their new bed.

    Spend a day with them

    We’re not saying you should hop on a plane and jet off to their country for the day. Have you seen the price of flight tickets lately? We’re just saying get on a video call and be ready to spend the day with each other like you would if you were together.

    Go spiritual

    You’re the only one who knows what you and your bestie have seen and been through together. We suggest you climb a mountain and pray for seven days and seven nights. Word on the street is best friends are scarce and in high demand.

    Beg their parents to beg them

    If all else fails, go to the people who brought them to this world, and beg them to beg their offspring to remember their love for you.

    Move into their parents’ house

    Since they’ve decided to leave you best friend-less in this country, we suggest you pack a good chunk of your load and move into their parents’ house. Now, you’re one step closer to them.

    Send them love notes every fortnight

    You could send it via e-mail, WhatsApp or pigeon. All that matters is they know how much you love and miss them.

    Spill the tea all the time


    Share every little thing that happens to you, around you, to mutual friends and strangers with them. Doesn’t matter how little the tea might be. Spill it. 

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

    How did you meet Yinka? 

    Bimpe: She shot a friendship shot at me. In February 2022, she DMed me on Instagram that she’d been following me for a while and thought I was really cool. She ended by saying we stayed around the same place and was wondering if we could be friends. I should’ve known from the shot that she was a weirdo, but I wanted more female friends so I was excited. 

    I’m a very friendly person, and I’ve met a lot of interesting people on social media, so I wasn’t opposed to the idea. I’d travelled to Abuja, so we used the time I was away from Lagos to text each other for a bit. I wanted to know if we had anything in common before we hung out. 

    We seemed to hit it off immediately. We had so much in common it was almost unbelievable. We shared similar goals and views about the world. I thought I would finally have a friend I could do things like go to the gym and run errands with. 

    So you met up with her? 

    Bimpe: Yeah. Two weeks after we started texting. It was supposed to be a quick lunch, nothing longer than an hour, but we stayed there for hours. We exchanged stories about our lives, drank and laughed a lot. The other people in the restaurant were looking at us strangely, but I didn’t care. I thought I’d found the next best thing to happen to me. 

    We spent so much time together after. Since we lived in the same area, we’d attend events from one person’s house because it didn’t make sense to arrive separately. My parents knew her, and I knew hers too. In fact, we’d gotten so close so quickly that about two to three months after we met, we started attending each other’s family events. If she didn’t come for one, my parents would be upset. She was my best friend. 

    When did you start noticing the change?

    Bimpe: About four months into our friendship. I’m a very social person, and because Yinka was my best friend, I dragged her along with me to many places. When we’d go out, it suddenly felt like she was trying to outdo me. She’d always try to make me the butt of jokes even when it wasn’t called for. 

    Once, at a beach party, someone complimented my bikini, but she was quick to point out that my makeup really tied the look together and that she did my makeup for me. Apparently, I’d have been so ugly if I did it myself. There was no reason for the comment. She just wanted to make me feel small. Luckily for me, I’m a very confident person. And I didn’t even notice anything before this beach incident. I think some people are just weird.

    The next time we went to the beach, she was wearing the same bikini the person complimented. What kind of sick behaviour is that? 

    Ah

    Bimpe: That’s another thing she did a lot. Copy my style. If someone complimented my hair, she’d buy the same wig or do the same style. If someone complimented an outfit, she’d buy it and post pictures of herself in it. 

    One time, I went on a date to a restaurant, and the next day, she had a date in that same restaurant. She even wore a similar outfit to the one I wore for my date.  

    Coincidence? 

    Bimpe: At first, I thought so, but one day in July, she’d just gotten her hair done — knotless brown box braids, and she looked really cute in them. The next week, I did layered braids in blonde because I hadn’t made my hair in weeks. Just wigs and vibes. Tell me why two days later, she posted an Instagram story from my hairdresser’s salon. This babe went and did layered braids too but in brown. Two days after I did mine? It was giving “obsessed”. 

    Chelsea c’mon nau 

    Bimpe: I decided to set a trap for her in August when I travelled again. I wanted to really know if she was copying me.

    I removed everyone from my close friends list except her then I posted a picture of hair on the floor on my story and typed “big chop” over it. I actually got the picture from when one of my other friends cut her hair. 

    A couple of days later, Yinka had cut her hair, claiming she was starting a new journey. When I got back to Lagos from Abuja the next week, she came to pick me up from the airport with my parents and was visibly shocked when she saw my afro. I just did as if nothing happened. 

    When we got back to my place, she asked about my hair. That’s when I let her have it. I told her to get out of my house and reported her to my parents so they don’t make the mistake of reaching out to her. 

    Detective doings 

    Bimpe: It was actually scary. When I told my other friends about it, they said that whenever I travelled, she tried to talk to them or initiate hangout sessions. They agreed because she was my close friend. It was as if she wanted my life. Never again, abeg. 

    Did she ever reach out after that? 

    Bimpe: She did. She claimed she was mentally ill, but I just sent her the number of a psychiatrist and blocked her. You can’t be weaponising mental illness in 2023, especially considering she never cared how what she did could’ve affected my own mental health. RELATED: Sunken Ships: The Elections May End, but My Uncle Will Remain Blocked