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  • A black couple sitting closely together in a room with warm lighting while she asks his questions that bring them closer.
    Asking thoughtful questions can bring you closer together.

    Finding the right questions to ask your boyfriend can make all the difference in keeping your connection strong and exciting. Relationships often burn hot in the beginning — you spend hours talking, learning what makes each other tick, and building a bond. To keep that spark alive, it’s important to stay curious and keep the conversation flowing. 

    That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 200 fun, meaningful, and even flirty questions to ask your boyfriend. Inspired by insights from real Nigerian couples we talked to, these questions cover everything from his personal philosophies to his finances and deepest desires, helping you deepen your connection at every stage.

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    35 Questions to ask your new boyfriend

    A black couple laughing together in a brightly lit living room as they get to know each other.
    Getting to know each other should never get boring.

    When Aina found love again, the thoughtful questions she asked her boyfriend early in the relationship helped build a strong foundation despite her past divorce and their age gap. These 35 questions will help you connect with your new boyfriend, understand his background, and lay the groundwork for something meaningful.

    • What’s your full name, and does it have any special meaning?
    • If you could relieve any moment from your life, which would it be?
    • What was it like for you growing up?
    • Do you have any siblings, and how close are you to them?
    • What’s your favourite childhood memory?
    • What was secondary school like for you?
    • What’s your favourite food?
    • Do you speak any languages? Can you teach me a few words?
    • What’s your favourite late-night snack?
    • How do you usually celebrate holidays or festivals back home?
    • What’s your favourite song right now?
    • What’s your love language?
    • How do you handle conflicts in a relationship?
    • What’s your idea of a perfect date?
    • Do you believe in marriage, and what does it mean to you?
    • How important is family approval in your relationships?
    • What’s the most romantic thing someone has ever done for you?
    • How do you show affection?
    • What’s your biggest deal-breaker in a relationship?
    • How do you balance your career and personal life?
    • Who’s your favourite Nigerian musician?
    • Do you like Nollywood movies? What’s your favourite?
    • What’s your favourite way to relax after a long day?
    • Do you enjoy cooking? What’s your signature dish?
    • What’s your favourite sport or team?
    • Do you like to dance? What’s your favourite dance move?
    • What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
    • Do you enjoy travelling? Where’s your dream destination?
    • What’s your favourite Nigerian slang or phrase?
    • Do you play any musical instruments?
    • What do you do for work, and do you enjoy it?
    • What’s your dream job or career goal?
    • How do you define success?
    • What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career?

    ALSO READ: 150+ Sweet Names To Call Your Boyfriend That’ll Make Him Smile

    35 Spicy, flirty questions to ask your boyfriend

    A black couple ins a sensual embrace with him kissing her ear while she asks him spicy questions.
    “I never realised how much flirting could strengthen our bond,” says Kemi.

    “I never realised how much flirting could strengthen our bond,” says Kemi. “Asking playful questions like his favourite way to be teased makes him smile and sets the mood.” Ready to turn up the heat? These 35 flirty questions will make your next date night unforgettable.

    • What’s the first thing you noticed about me when we met?  
    • Do you remember what you were thinking the first time we kissed?  
    • What’s your favourite thing about my smile?  
    • If you could describe my body in three words, what would they be?  
    • What’s the sexiest thing I’ve ever worn?  
    • Do you ever catch yourself staring at me when I’m not looking?  
    • What’s your favourite bedroom memory of us so far?  
    • What would you want to do if we were alone right now?  
    • What’s the most attractive thing about me, in your opinion?  
    • Do you like it when I wear your clothes?  
    • What’s your favourite way for me to touch you?  
    • Do you prefer cuddling or kissing? Why?  
    • What’s the sexiest thing you’ve ever thought about doing to me?  
    • Do you feel like I understand your desires and needs?   
    • What’s your favourite part of my body?  
    • Do you ever dream about me? What happens in those dreams?  
    • What’s the most daring thing you’d like us to try together?  
    • What’s the sexiest thing I’ve ever done without realising it?  
    • What’s your favourite position when we’re intimate?  
    • Do you like it when I take control, or do you prefer to lead?  
    • What’s your biggest fantasy involving me?  
    • If we could go anywhere in the world for a romantic getaway, where would it be?  
    • What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t told me yet?  
    • Do you like it when I tease you?  
    • What’s the sexiest thing I’ve ever said to you?  
    • If we had 24 hours alone with no distractions, what would we do?  
    • What’s your favourite way to be seduced?  
    • Do you like it when I wear lingerie? What colour should I try next?  
    • What’s the most adventurous place you’d like to be intimate with me?  
    • What’s something you’ve always wanted me to do to you?  
    • Do you like it when I play with your hair?  
    • What’s your favourite nickname I’ve ever called you?  
    • Do you think about me during the day when we’re apart?  
    • What’s the sexiest thing about the way I walk or move?  
    • What’s one thing you’d like us to explore together to make our connection even stronger?

    ALSO READ: 250+ Deep Love Messages for Him That’ll Melt His Heart

    35 deep questions to ask your boyfriend

    A black woman in a yellow dress talking to her boyfriend over a cup of coffee
    Having those deep, meaningful conversations is bound to bring you closer.

    Hassan credits deep conversations with Derin for bringing him closer to the love of his life. These thought-provoking questions are designed to spark meaningful dialogue, uncover hidden layers, and strengthen your bond. Whether you’re exploring his dreams, fears, or values, these deep questions will help you connect on a level that goes far beyond the surface.

    • What’s the most important lesson life has taught you so far?  
    • What’s your biggest fear, and how do you cope with it?  
    • What’s one thing you’ve never told anyone about yourself?  
    • How do you define true happiness?  
    • What’s your biggest regret, and what did you learn from it?  
    • What’s the most challenging thing you’ve ever overcome?  
    • How do you handle failure or disappointment?  
    • What’s your idea of a perfect life?  
    • What’s something you’re still trying to forgive yourself for?  
    • How do you think your childhood has shaped who you are today?  
    • What’s the most meaningful compliment you’ve ever received?  
    • What’s one thing you’re most proud of about yourself?  
    • How do you want to be remembered by the people who love you?  
    • What’s your biggest dream that you haven’t pursued yet?  
    • What’s the most selfless thing you’ve ever done?  
    • How do you deal with feelings of insecurity or self-doubt?  
    • What’s your definition of love, and how has it changed over time?  
    • What’s one thing you wish you could change about the world?  
    • How do you handle stress or overwhelming emotions?  
    • What’s the most important quality you look for in partners?
    • What’s a moment in your life that changed you forever?  
    • How do you think our relationship has impacted you so far?  
    • What’s something you’ve always wanted to ask me but haven’t?  
    • What’s your biggest insecurity, and how can I support you with it?  
    • What’s one thing you’re still trying to figure out about yourself?  
    • How do you feel about vulnerability in relationships?  
    • What’s the most meaningful relationship in your life, and why?  
    • What’s one thing you’ve learned from past relationships?  
    • How do you think we can grow stronger as a couple?  
    • What’s your biggest hope for our future together?  
    • What’s one thing you’re afraid to lose in life?  
    • How do you think your friends would describe you?  
    • What’s a dream or goal you’ve given up on, and why?  
    • How do you feel about the concept of soulmates or destiny?  
    • How do you deal with temptation?

    ALSO READ: 250+ Questions to Ask Your Girlfriend For a Deeper Connection

    35 Questions to ask your boyfriend about finances

    A black woman talking to her boyfriend about money.
    Talking about money early in your relationship will bring you closer to your boyfriend.

    According to Jola and David, talking about their finances early in their relationship helped them avoid misunderstandings and even helped improve David’s relationship with money. These 35 financial questions can help you get on the same page about money matters.

    • How do you feel about discussing finances in a relationship?  
    • What’s your current financial situation like?  
    • Do you have any savings, and how much do you aim to save regularly?  
    • What’s your approach to budgeting? Do you follow a plan?  
    • Do you have any debt, and how are you managing it?  
    • How did it feel to get paid for the first time?  
    • How do you handle unexpected expenses or emergencies?  
    • What’s your philosophy on spending versus saving?  
    • Do you invest? If so, what kind of investments do you have?  
    • How do you feel about sharing financial responsibilities in a relationship?  
    • What’s your biggest financial goal right now?  
    • Do you have a retirement plan, and how are you preparing for it?  
    • How do you feel about joint bank accounts in a relationship?  
    • What’s your attitude toward taking financial risks?  
    • Do you have a financial role model or someone you look up to for money advice?  
    • How do you prioritise your spending?  
    • What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought, and was it worth it?  
    • Do you believe in giving to charity or helping others financially?  
    • How do you feel about lending money to friends or family?  
    • What’s your opinion on buying a home in a less urban place and renting in the city?  
    • Do you have a financial plan for the next 5 years?  
    • How do you feel about prenuptial agreements?  
    • What’s your biggest financial fear?  
    • How do you handle financial disagreements in a relationship?  
    • Do you track your expenses regularly?  
    • What’s your opinion on using loan apps?  
    • How do you feel about taking out loans for big purchases?  
    • What’s your attitude toward luxury spending or splurging?  
    • Do you have any financial habits you’re trying to change?  
    • How do you feel about financial transparency in a relationship?  
    • What’s your opinion on supporting family members financially?  
    • How would you plan to split finances if we decide to have children?  
    • What’s your opinion on combining incomes in a marriage?  
    • How do you feel about financial independence in a relationship?  
    • What’s your attitude toward saving for big life events, like weddings or buying a house?

    30 Questions to test his love

    A black couple cuddles in a dimly lit room as she asks her boyfriend questions that test his love.
    Figuring out how he feels about you isn’t as hard as you think.

    Jane says that getting to know the real reason why Nonso chose her helped reassure her of his love. These 30 questions will help you gauge his level of commitment and how well he understands and values you. They range from lighthearted to profound so that you can mix and match depending on the mood and situation:

    • What’s your favourite thing about our relationship?
    • How do you know you’re in love with me?
    • What’s one thing you’d never change about me?
    • How do you feel when we’re apart for a long time?
    • What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of me?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel like a priority?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel special, even on a bad day?
    • How do you want to handle disagreements between us?
    • What’s your favourite memory of us together?
    • How do you see us growing together in the future?
    • What’s one thing you’ve learned from being in a relationship with me?
    • How would you handle it when I’m upset or having a tough time?
    • What’s one way you’d like to improve our relationship?
    • How do you define loyalty in a relationship?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to support my dreams and goals?
    • How do you feel about making sacrifices for our relationship?
    • What’s one thing you’d never compromise on when it comes to us?
    • How do you know I’m the one for you?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel loved every day?
    • How do you feel about our future together?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel secure in our relationship?
    • How do you handle it when I need space or time alone?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to cheer me up when I’m feeling down?
    • How do you feel about being vulnerable with me?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to show me you’re thinking of me?
    • How do you feel about making long-term plans together?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel appreciated?
    • How do you handle it when we have different opinions or beliefs?
    • What’s one thing you’d do to make me feel understood?
    • How do you feel about putting in effort to keep our relationship strong?

    30 Questions to make him laugh

    couple in native attire laughing as she asks her boyfriend funny questions.
    Joke your way right into his heart.

    Dare and Vanessa are proof that if you want to make him fall in love with you, make him laugh. These 30 questions will make sure that he laughs his way into your arms.

    • If you had to choose between me and your favourite sports jersey, which one would you pick?
    • What food would you eat to win if you entered a food-eating contest?
    • What’s the most embarrassing thing you’ve ever done to impress someone?
    • If you were a superhero, what would your power and lame weakness be?
    • What’s the funniest joke you know by heart?
    • If you could swap lives with any animal for a day, which one would you choose?
    • What’s the silliest thing you believed as a kid?
    • If you had to describe yourself as a kitchen appliance, what would you be?
    • What’s the most ridiculous dare you’ve ever taken?
    • What’s the funniest nickname you’ve been given?
    • If you could create a new holiday, what would it be called and how would we celebrate?
    • What’s the most embarrassing song you secretly love?
    • If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    • What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever done to avoid doing work?
    • What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever bought?
    • What’s the most ridiculous excuse you’ve ever used to get out of something?
    • What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen someone else do?
    • If you could invent a new dance move, what would it be called?
    • What’s the weirdest dream you’ve ever had?
    •  What’s the funniest reason you got into trouble as a kid?
    • If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
    • What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever done to avoid awkward small talk?
    • If you could have any fictional character as your roommate, who would it be?
    •  What’s the funniest thing you’ve done to impress someone?
    •  What’s a slang or phrase you can’t go a day without saying?
    •  If you were jollof rice, would you be party jollof or home jollof?
    •  If we swapped bodies for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do?
    •  What’s your favourite meme?
    • If you could have any celebrity’s voice for a day, whose would you choose and why?
    • If you could replace all the grass in the world with something else, what would it be?

  • The topic of how young Nigerians navigate romantic relationships with their earnings is a minefield of hot takes. In Love Currency, we get into what relationships across income brackets look like in different cities.

    How long have you been with your partner?

    About one and a half years. My wife, Josephine, and I hit our first wedding anniversary in December 2024. We dated for five months before we got married.

    How did you meet Josephine?

    We first met at our NYSC orientation camp in 2020. I asked her out, but she had a boyfriend, so we just exchanged numbers and chatted occasionally. I accepted that I’d been friend-zoned and didn’t ask her about her relationship status again.

    Then, we met again at work in 2023. I was the new hire, but Josephine had been there for a while. We were both surprised to see each other and began talking more regularly. We also often hung out at work and had lunch together. 

    About two months after we reconnected, Josephine jokingly asked if my girlfriend wouldn’t be annoyed that we talked so much. I said I was single, and she asked, “So why won’t you ask me out?” I was like, “Shebi you had a boyfriend?” 

    In summary, she’d been broken up with the guy for years, so we started dating.

    What was dating a coworker like?

    We didn’t tell our coworkers because we weren’t sure if there was a policy against it  —there wasn’t. But spending so much time with my girlfriend was definitely a plus. We’d hang out at work, then get food after office hours and end up in either her house or mine.

    I think it also helped that we knew each other’s salary. I earned ₦100k, and Josephine earned ₦120k, so there were no unrealistic expectations of going to restaurant dates every week or buying expensive gifts. 

    Our first date was at the cinema, and we even shared the bill. I bought the ₦7k tickets and paid about ₦15k for the cabs, while Josephine bought the popcorn and drinks. We didn’t even talk about splitting the bills beforehand. She just offered. I think that was the moment I knew I’d marry her, and I proposed two months later.

    Sharp sharp?

    I didn’t see any point in delaying. Plus, Josephine and I had talked about marriage. We weren’t fans of long dating. If you already love the person, why wait for years and years?

    Also, a few weeks earlier, I’d gotten another remote job—a ₦350k/month product management role at a fintech company, bringing my income sources to two. I felt ready to get married. Josephine also had a job, and our combined incomes would be enough to support our home.

    Did you already discuss combining your finances?

    Something like that. We’d had reasons to discuss traditional expectations in marriage versus what we wanted in our relationship, and Josephine had said she didn’t subscribe to the man being the sole provider. She made it clear that she wouldn’t be a stay-at-home wife. She’d work and also contribute to the home. I didn’t see any point in discussing a contribution percentage. I believe the man should provide more; if the wife needs to support him, she’ll step in. Plus, we were transparent with our finances, so I didn’t expect money to be a problem.

    These were my convictions when I proposed in August 2023. She said yes, and we got married in December. We got a lot of financial support from our family and friends. We also combined our savings to rent a ₦700k/year two-bedroom apartment in Mowe, Ogun state. We chose Mowe because it was cheaper than most places in Lagos. 

    What has marriage been like?

    Harder than expected. I’ve been the sole breadwinner since April 2024. Josephine got pregnant almost immediately we got married, and it was a tough pregnancy. She managed to work for the first three months. But by April, she had to be placed on bed rest, so she resigned. 

    My remote job had increased my salary to ₦450k when this happened, so I also resigned from the other job. It had become too stressful commuting from Mowe to Lagos mainland. Plus, I needed to be available to assist Josephine.

    Hospital bills drained my salary during that period. At some point, Josephine observed bed rest at home, but she started bleeding, so the hospital admitted her. We practically lived in the hospital for the remaining four months of that pregnancy. I was just hearing, “Pay ₦50k for this, bring ₦80k for that.” I can’t even calculate how much I spent because I’ll just develop a headache.

    Sigh. Sorry you went through that 

    We even had to borrow ₦200k from family members to settle the bill after we had the baby in September. I could only buy baby things in small quantities when I received my salary because I couldn’t afford everything at once. It’s been really hard.

    As if I didn’t have enough problems, Josephine initially couldn’t produce enough milk to breastfeed. In the first month, I spent almost ₦100k on baby formula. Thankfully, Josephine started producing milk after a few months, but I was overwhelmed by how expensive and mentally draining childcare was.

    Sometimes, I’d think about all the expenses in front of me, lock myself in the toilet, and cry. I couldn’t tell my wife because she was also recovering from a traumatic pregnancy and caring for an infant. Omo, we went through it. Now, I advise anyone who has ears not to try to have children until they’re very sure they can handle it financially and emotionally.

    Word. With your baby and limited finances, do you both even have time for romance stuff?

    Was it not romance that got us into this mess? Honestly, we haven’t had any time for each other. Our baby is almost four months old now, so she sleeps a bit more at night, and we try to use the quiet time to talk or watch movies. But that’s not often because we’re almost always tired to do anything.

    Josephine has been stylishly hinting that we buy pizza occasionally for indoor dates like we used to do, but her requests often irritate me. I bring out money for every single thing we need, even down to matches, and she wants pizza. I know she means no harm, but it’s a bit insensitive. 

    In December, I had to borrow ₦300k from a loan app to make rent, and I’ve been repaying from a salary that isn’t even enough. I’m exhausted all the time, and I’m even scared to check my blood pressure because I know it’ll be high. I’m sick and tired of being the primary breadwinner, and I’m counting the days until Josephine can work again.

    Have you both agreed on when that’ll be?

    I hope it’s when our baby turns seven or eight months old. I’ve brought it up with Josephine, but she is set on getting a remote job so she can be with the baby. I don’t have issues with that because I also don’t think I can care for the baby while working. 

    But I’m scared that her search for a remote job may take too long. I just need help as soon as possible. I told her this, but she made it seem like I didn’t believe in her. So, I’ll just quietly hope she finds a job as soon as she starts searching.

    What kind of conversations do you both have around money now?

    Right now, it’s about how much money she needs from me to buy diapers or medicine. This January, we discussed the need to save at least ₦50k/month for rent so we don’t run helter-skelter when it’s due. It will be hard to be consistent, but we’ll have to try our best. Hopefully, Josephine also gets a job this year so we can improve our finances and possibly look at saving for things we need, like a washing machine.

    What’s your ideal financial future as a couple?

    I just want both of us to have good incomes so the load on my shoulders can be reduced.

    Interested in talking about how money moves in your relationship? If yes, click here.

    *Names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.

    NEXT READ: The Hairdresser in a Long-Distance Marriage on a ₦25k/Month Income

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  • Just hours after 2Baba (born Innocent Idibia) announced his separation from his wife, actress Annie Macaulay-Idibia, on Instagram on January 26, 2025, social media was ablaze with reactions, think pieces, and heated debates. The news, which came as a shock to many, dominated conversations across platforms, with fans, critics, and celebrities alike weighing in on the unexpected split.

    “Well, this thing I have to say is short but also long,” 2Baba shared on his Instagram story. “I and Annie Macaulay have been separated for a while now. And currently filed divorce.”

    While Annie has remained silent since the announcement, 2Baba’s revelation has sparked a wave of speculation, memes, and heartfelt messages from fans who have followed the couple’s journey over the years. 

    This isn’t the first time the pair has made headlines for their relationship struggles, but this latest development has undoubtedly driven the highest social engagement, cementing their status as one of Nigeria’s most talked-about celebrity couples. As the internet continues to buzz, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit the highs and lows of 2Baba and Annie’s relationship.

    1999: 2Baba and Annie’s first encounter

    Annie stated in a 2017 video interview with Seriously Speaking that she met 2Baba in 1999, when she was a teenager, reportedly at Even Ezra Music Studio. In the interview, she shared that, at the time, she tried to keep their relationship private. “I used to hide him a lot because I was a teenager,” she said.

    2004: Annie stars in the video for 2Baba’s “African Queen”

    In 2004, Annie was featured in the music video of 2Baba’s international hit, “African Queen.” According to Annie, in a now-deleted IG post, she was still trying to find her “feet in the modelling industry” when 2Baba chose her for the video. Reflecting on the song and its music video, she said, “We both had no idea the song would change the entire music scene in Africa and its narrative.”

    2008: Annie and 2Baba have their first child

    In 2008, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Isabella. At the time, 2Baba already had four other children with two other women,Sunmbo Ajaba and Pero Adeniyi.

    2012: 2Baba proposes to Annie

    On Valentine’s Day in 2012, Annie said yes to a wedding proposal from 2Baba. He surpised her with the  proposal at Club 10 in Victoria Island, Lagos. At the time, Pero was pregnant with another child for him.

    2013: 2Baba and Annie get married in Dubai

    By March 2013, Annie and 2Baba got married. They had their traditional wedding in Nigeria and flew to Dubai for their white wedding. Almost all the biggest Nigerian stars back then were there. There’s even a love and apology song dedicated to Annie, titled “Rainbow.”

    2014: 2Baba and Annie welcome their second child

    In January 2014, the couple welcomed Olivia, their second child together. The baby’s face and name were revealed in February, a month after her birth. Annie introduced  little Oliva on IG with the caption, “Say hello to our sweet Valentine! Olivia.”

    2021: Annie accuses 2Baba of mingling with Pero

    Annie accused 2Baba of infidelity with one of his baby mamas, Pero. In the heat of the situation, Annie removed the “Idibia” name from her bio, calling out 2Baba, his young brother and his manager on her IG story. She said, “You are not the first man on the planet to have kids by different women!!! You can do better! Everything I do is to show the good human that [you are]!!! But today! This move done by you, Efe, Frankie [and] your family is unacceptable!!”

    2022: 2Baba and Annie renew their marital vows

    In 2022, on Annie and 2Baba’s tenth wedding anniversary, a year after they almost parted ways due to issues involving their families, they walked down the aisle to profess their love for each other and renew their vows. You can find the wedding anniversary video in the first season of Young, Famous & African.

    2025: 2Baba announces divorce

    On the night of January 26, 2025, 2Baba shockingly announced on Instagram that he had been separated from Annie for a while and their divorce was in process. 

    A few minutes later, the post was deleted, and another post claiming that his account was hacked came up. But it didn’t take long for 2Baba to regain control of his account and make a video to firmly state that he indeed wrote the deleted post and that the news about his divorce is true.

  • Breakups are hard, but they hit different when your partner decides to make a public service announcement about it online. Whether you’re the victim or the villain in the story, here’s your ultimate Zikoko guide to navigating post-breakup internet drama like a pro.

    1. Pause before reacting

    The streets are waiting for your clapback, but don’t give them the satisfaction. Take a moment to breathe and let your emotions settle. A rushed response could make you the meme of the week.

    2. Document everything

    You need receipts for future reference. Whether it’s for your therapist, lawyer, or group chat, you’ll thank yourself for documenting the mess.

    3. Check if they tagged you

    If your ex tagged you in the breakup post, it’s game on. You can’t be blindsided like that without deciding whether to untag, block, or drop an equally dramatic post.

    4. Secure your social media

    Change your passwords, lock down your accounts, and prepare for random trolls sliding into your DMs. The internet is full of overzealous judges.

    5. Update your bio

    Were you one of those couples with matching bios? Quickly edit yours before people start zooming in and analysing your emotional state. 

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    6. Alert your squad

    Before your friends learn from the blogs, send a quick SOS to your inner circle. They need to be armed and ready to defend your honour online.

    7. Mute your ex

    Unfollowing them might seem dramatic, so mute their account instead. Out of sight, out of mind, but still within reach for reconnaissance.

    8. Curate your own narrative

    If you must address the situation, keep it classy. A simple “We’ve decided to part ways, but I wish them the best” will do. No need to turn it into an episode of The Real Housewives of Instagram.

    9. Prepare for public questions

    Everyone from your nosy aunty to your office colleagues will ask, “What happened?” Have a generic response ready, like, “We just grew apart.”

    10. Stay off social media

    As tempting as it is to scroll through comments dissecting your relationship, resist the urge. Social media is a circus, and you don’t need to perform.

    If you need support with going through a rough divorce or breakup, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a self-help service provider like this one.

  • Tell me about your relationship with Kunle

    Kunle and I had been friends since we were kids. We first met at his cousin’s house for a birthday party, and we became close.  When he visited Lagos from Abuja, he stayed with me instead of his cousins, and I often visited his house. 

    We went to the same A-level school, which deepened our bond. We both had family in Germany, and we made plans to meet whenever we were on holiday there at the same time. Our friendship was great, and we had a good time. We remained close even after he left for university abroad while I completed my degree in Nigeria.

    How did you guys come to live together?

    After completing my master’s in the UK, I felt directionless and depressed.  I didn’t have the energy for most things. I was staying with an aunt, who made it increasingly clear that I was overstaying my welcome.  The pressure to move out was mounting, but finding a job in the UK was more challenging than I’d expected.

    One day, I was on the phone with Kunle, complaining about my living situation and how I felt like a burden to my aunt. He immediately offered to let me move in with him. At first, I refused since I hadn’t gotten a job, but he convinced me. I agreed to rent a small room from him for two months. The move was supposed to help me clear my head and change my environment. He offered to let me stay for free, but I insisted on paying half the rent. I moved in at the end of October 2022.

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    How did you find your new room?

    The room was small, but I paid very little rent, and living with my guy made me happy. When I moved in, I met Kunle’s white girlfriend, Prudence. I need to mention that Kunle dating a white woman was very jarring to me because he only seemed interested in them after his ex-girlfriend back in Nigeria broke his heart. I didn’t say anything though, because they seemed happy together.

    Prudence was welcoming and called me her bestie after just a couple of conversations. I found it odd, but I embraced their welcome, and all was well for two weeks. We played video games all the time and spent hours talking. I also got to meet the other two housemates who shared the flat.

    What happened after two weeks?

    Kunle had to travel to another city for work. As a freelancer, he secured a gig that required him to be away semi-permanently. This meant I had to spend a lot more time with Prudence. To help him afford to keep the flat, I increased my contributions toward the rent and groceries. I didn’t mind because he was my friend, and I was happy to help. However, after he left, things started getting very uncomfortable. 

    How so?

    Prudence completely switched up. She started making horrible jokes about me and became passive-aggressive about everything. She also made snide comments about Kunle renting the space to me, claiming the room was actually hers and they were helping me by letting me stay there. Even when I gently explained that I was actually paying the full rent by that time, she continued making weird comments about me being there. Initially, I avoided bringing it up with Kunle because I didn’t want to cause any strife in their relationship, but it became unbearable.  I ended up doing most of the chores while Prudence refused to clean up after herself. I also bought the majority of the groceries despite her knowing I didn’t have a job. This went on for months.

    Did you ever bring it up with Kunle?

    Yes, I did. To my surprise, he started avoiding me. He stopped replying my calls or messages. Sometimes, he would visit the house for the weekend and not tell me. I caught him sneaking around the house, trying to avoid me. It was so awkward and isolating that I started to question why he invited me in the first place. The rare times we spoke, he would cut our conversation short because he had to go back to Prudence. 

    Because he did nothing, the abuse and disrespect from Prudence increased. She would scream at me, call me names, and accuse me of not cleaning, even though I was the primary cleaner in the house. The other housemates, who were care workers, were rarely home. It was frustrating and left me feeling powerless. Kunle ignored my messages, let alone offered any support. 

    The last straw was when she barged into my room with her drunk friends, mocked me, and called me an immigrant she and Kunle were helping. It was so hurtful. I texted Kunle about it, but he never replied. I got really depressed.

    I’m so sorry. What did you do after that?

    I would have done nothing if not for a stroke of luck. I told a mutual friend of ours in Brighton about what I was going through with Prudence and Kunle. He was so appalled he asked me to move out of there immediately and head to his house in London. This was in July 2023. I told Kunle and Prudence I would move out in ten days. Suddenly, Prudence started being nice to me again, claiming she didn’t want me to leave and that she enjoyed having me around. The gaslighting almost made me dizzy. Then, she told me that Kunle had proposed to her, and they were getting married soon.

    Wow.

    Wow o! I was surprised, too, because he never mentioned it to me. I tried to be happy for him. Even though I felt terrible about how our friendship had deteriorated, I wanted to support him and attend the wedding. When I asked about the wedding details, Prudence said they didn’t need me there. They had space for four witnesses but wanted only their white friends there. I took the hint and moved back to London. A few months later, I moved back to Nigeria.

    Did Kunle ever reach out to you?

    Yes, a year after I had moved out of his place. We hadn’t spoken at all during that time. Out of the blue, he texted in one of our old WhatsApp groups, asking if I was free for a call. I had missed him terribly and saw his message as an olive branch, so I accepted. You won’t believe what this crazy man told me.

    As soon as we hopped on a call, he asked why I wanted to ruin his marriage. I was confused and asked how. He said that by telling my family and our mutual friends about how Prudence treated me, I was painting her in a bad light.  When I tried to explain how his lack of support had left me feeling isolated in a foreign country, he dismissed my feelings and said I was exaggerating. Then, to my disbelief, he demanded an apology.

    How did this make you feel?

    I felt betrayed and incredibly disappointed. I couldn’t believe Kunle was willing to throw away almost twenty years of friendship. It made me reflect on my boundaries and how much leeway I was giving people to hurt me just because I was close to them. Never in a million years would I have imagined Kunle would do something like that to me.

    Do you think your friendship with him will ever recover?

    No, that ship has sailed. I learned a lot from that experience; you can’t hold space for someone who treats you like that. I don’t wish them any harm, but I have deleted their numbers and kept my distance. 

    I moved back to Nigeria at the end of 2023, and I have been slowly healing the trauma of that isolating experience. I now have much stronger boundaries and lean on friends and family who actually support me.

  • With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the season of love is about to be in full swing with flowers, pink hearts, and wrapped gifts filling every timeline and store promotion. But what does this time of year feel like for those who don’t experience romantic attraction?

    Curious, Zikoko spoke to five young aromantic Nigerians to explore their thoughts on Valentine’s Day. Aromanticism is a romantic orientation that refers to having little to no romantic feelings toward others and experiencing minimal or no romantic desire or attraction. Like all expressions of identity, aromanticism exists on a spectrum — some aromantic people date occasionally, while others choose not to date at all.

    Navigating a World Built on Romance

    Romantic love is deeply embedded in the fabric of society, shaping everything from media to traditions like Valentine’s Day. For aromantic people, this can be both isolating and liberating. As we learned, while some aromantic individuals embrace aspects of the season, others find it commercialised, exhausting, or simply irrelevant.

    Here’s what five aromantic young Nigerians shared about their experiences with Valentine’s Day.

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    “I Love My Friends Deeply, Just Not Romantically” — Kosi (25, M).

    I don’t hate the Valentine’s period at all. I’m actually quite happy for people who are in love or have found love. I just don’t relate to love in that way, personally. This is not to say I have no love in my life. I deeply love my friends and express that love as much as possible. I just don’t experience romantic love — at least not in a way that is distinct from the love I have for my friends. I’m still trying to find where I fit in in the expression of romantic love. I’ve dated aromantic and asexual people in the past, and it was pretty okay. I’ve spent two Valentine’s in a relationship in the past, and I think I sent a gift each time. I’m pretty sure I haven’t ever gotten a Valentine’s gift before, but I don’t think I’m missing out.

    My issues with Valentine’s Day stem more from how it has been commercialised to such a point that it seems to celebrate consumerism and materialism more than the love itself. The branding of Valentine’s Day focuses on the gifts, the cards, and the “instagrammability” of all of that, and it rubs me the wrong way. 

    But aside from that, I think it’s cute that even though we love all year round, we have a dedicated period where we celebrate it. I just wish it was less gimmicky.

    “I’ve Never Celebrated Valentine’s Even Platonically.” — Beyy* (23, F).

    I don’t know if I’m aroace, honestly. I’ve never dated before, and I’m not really looking to do it in the near future either. I’m still figuring it out. 

    I have mixed feelings about Valentine’s Day. I like that when done right, it’s a very exciting time for women, especially because God knows we need more of those. At the same time, it really is just another time for me as I’ve never engaged in it. I don’t particularly care for it, but I think it’s a cute time. Like I said, I don’t date.

    I’ve never celebrated Valentine’s even platonically, but I might give it a try this year. Unfortunately, the only thing I can remember about past Valentine’s Days is experiencing other people’s joy over it. I stayed in the hostel for the first three years of secondary school, and the anticipation the girls had for gifts sent to the hostel was one of the most exciting things about the day. They would make it a whole event, leaning outside the windows, waiting for someone to come, teasing the recipients of the gifts and just having fun with it. It made the day nice. Female joy is always lovely to see.

    “I Don’t Mind Valentine’s Season Particularly, But I Find All The Marketing Exhausting”— Dele* (26, M).

    I’m aromantic so it’s difficult for me to connect with people romantically. I still try but it never lasts very long. I don’t mind the Valentine’s season though, I think couples in love are cute even if I don’t really relate to their experience. 

    I don’t mind Valentine’s season particularly, but I find all the marketing exhausting. I think we need a time to celebrate love the way we celebrate Christmas or any other holiday, but we need to make it less of a money grab. The women in my life — my friends and sisters — absolutely love the pink hearts, chocolates and all that serenren, so I celebrate by getting them small gifts for Valentine’s. 

    “I Usually Like To Spend Valentine’s Day By Myself”—Toni* (24, F).

    I usually like to spend Valentine’s Day by myself. I think there are a lot of spoken and unspoken expectations around the season, even from people who claim to understand why I’m not very interested in romantic love and its bells and whistles. 

    My friends have persuaded me to attend a Galentine event. It will be all girls, low pressure, and good vibes, and I’m actually looking forward to it. It would be great to find a way that I can celebrate the season without feeling like I’m not being genuine.

    “I Don’t Usually Think About The Events Of The Day Because I’m Busy Thinking About How To Celebrate My Birthday” — Rotimi* (22, M).

    I don’t really mind Valentine’s season. My birthday is three days after Valentine’s Day, so I’m grateful that I don’t usually think about the events of the day because I’m busy thinking about how to celebrate my birthday. I focus on celebrating the love I have with my friends when they come to celebrate with me, and I prefer it this way.

    A Valentine’s Beyond Romance

    As these stories show, Valentine’s Day often sparks different emotions and perspectives for aromantic people. While some view it as a celebration of consumerism, others use the season to focus on platonic love and appreciation for their loved ones. 

    If you’re looking to celebrate loved ones in a non-romantic way this Valentine’s Day, here are some thoughtful gift ideas to consider. It’s a great way to honor the bonds that matter most — romantic or not.

  • Tomi* had never fallen in love before he met his best friend, Derin, online. Struggling to understand his new emotions, he created some distance between them, only to discover she once felt the same way. Now, he hopes her current relationship ends so he can find the courage to try again. 

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    As Told To Betty

    I always believed romantic love wasn’t in the cards for me. While I loved my friends and family, I had never experienced romantic or sexual feelings for anyone until 2021. To be honest, I wasn’t worried about it, but everything changed when  I met Derin.

    In March 2021, as people were recovering from the trauma of 2020,  I met a girl online. Her name was Derin, and she seemed fun. She had the kind  of personality I typically admired in my female friends. I followed her and struck up a conversation in her inbox. We started talking, bonding over our mutual love for movies, anime, and cheesy romance novels.. What stood out most was her reaction when I admitted I’d never caught feelings before—she didn’t make it awkward. Within a week of texting, we exchanged phone numbers and started FaceTiming every day. 

    By May 2021, I noticed my feelings for Derin had grown stronger.  I convinced myself that I wanted her to be my best friend because of how deeply attached I’d become to our friendship.

    Derin and I lived in different cities—me in Lagos and her in Abuja—so our friendship existed entirely online. In September 2021, she travelled to Lagos with her family for a wedding (or owambe, I can’t remember). What I’ll never forget was the first time I saw her. We met at the Domino’s in Yaba, and the moment I laid eyes on her, it felt like my brain had been hit by a truck. She looked amazing in her gele and sequined party dress, her skin glowing in the afternoon sun. Even her voice was smoother in real life. When she hugged me, I almost burst into flames. It’s so hard to describe the feeling. My fingers tingled, and I started sweating despite the AC being on full blast. If I pointed my finger, electricity would shoot out and blow something up (that’s how I felt). 

    We talked for a long time, but I made excuses to leave earlier than I wanted to because I was on the verge of hyperventilating during our conversation. She was calm about it, assuming I wasn’t feeling well—and honestly, I started wondering the same because what kind of behaviour was that? Anyway, we said our goodbyes, and she returned to Abuja with her family, promising to visit again in December. 

    After she left, I dreamt about her every day for a week. I couldn’t stop thinking about her all the time–it was scary. The worst part was that I couldn’t talk to her about it because she was the one I usually confided in. So, I spoke to one of my guy friends. He laughed and asked, “Abi you like this babe ni?” That’s when it hit me: I was experiencing my first crush. I couldn’t believe it. I had actual romantic feelings for my best friend, the worst cliche in the Wattpad books Derin and I loved to read. 

    I decided to keep my feelings to myself and try to get over them.  But as December approached, the pressure inside me built up until I felt like I would pop if I didn’t tell her I was in love with her. I was determined to talk to her about my feelings when she returned to Lagos that December. But by the time I worked up the courage to even tell her that I had something to say, she told me she had a crush on some guy from Twitter. 

    The guy wasn’t even good-looking (yes, I’m a hater). She’d send me his tweets and gush over him while I tried to be supportive. But for the first time, I felt that hot, uncomfortable pang of romantic jealousy. Every time she talked about him, it was like someone was pounding my chest like pounded yam, but I held my tongue. I didn’t want to make things awkward by confessing my feelings when she already had a crush on someone else. I tried and tried to get over her, but she was so amazing, and it was too hard. 

    The more she spoke about him, the more resentful I became, and I hated my resentment more than anything. Having rebuffed other people’s feelings many times before, I knew my emotions weren’t her fault. But that didn’t make them any easier to handle. So, I slowly began to pull back from our friendship, and by mid-2022, we were only speaking once in a while. 

    I admit that the distance helped me cope with my feelings, but I still had to confront them. Love songs and poems gained a whole new perspective for me during this time. I finally understood why people sing in the rain and why writers poured their hearts out on paper. It was a very trying time for me because I also had trouble accepting this new facet of myself and how it changed my desire for a partner for myself. I eventually got my feelings under control and moved on from it.

    In December 2024, I called her to catch up. During our conversation, she admitted that she’d had a huge crush on me back when she visited Lagos. But she didn’t want to make me uncomfortable because she knew I was ace. 

    I was speechless. It hit me that I still had a soft spot for her, and I regret not making a move when I had the chance—or even after coming to terms with my feelings. She’s dating someone now, so I’ve kept my feelings to myself. But I won’t lie—I pray daily for their breakup. When she’s single again, I’ll find the courage to ask her out. We talk more now, but our friendship isn’t as close as it used to be. Still, I’m hopeful about the future and what it might bring.

  • Parenting is hard enough on its own, but when grief enters the picture, it becomes an entirely different journey, one filled with unexpected challenges and emotions many don’t openly discuss. We spoke to three Nigerians who’ve had to deal with this delicate balance, and here’s what they had to say.

    Tunde*

    How did you navigate the challenges of parenting while processing your own grief?

    I’ll admit it wasn’t easy. My mum passed just a month after my son was born, and I was stuck between the joy of becoming a dad and the devastation of losing the woman who raised me. The first thing I did was allow myself to feel everything. I cried, and I talked about my mum to anyone who would listen — my wife, my siblings, even my baby, who obviously didn’t understand. I made peace with the fact that I couldn’t pour into my son’s life if I didn’t address my own pain first. Therapy also helped me compartmentalise. Understanding that grief and joy could coexist in my life gave me the strength to move forward.

    Did the loss change how you raise your kids, or was it business as usual?

    My mum was a nurturer, always present and deeply involved in my life. Losing her made me realise how important it is to be fully there for my son. I’ve started journaling small moments with him, so he’ll have something to hold onto even if I’m not around someday. It also taught me to prioritise building a strong emotional connection. It’s the legacy I want to leave behind.

    How did you break the news to your kids about the loss, and how do you think it’s shaped them?

    My son is still a baby, so he doesn’t understand yet, but I talk about my mum all the time in little ways. I show him pictures and say, “That’s grandma. She would’ve loved you so much.” I think it’s important for him to know where he comes from, even if she’s not physically here. My wife and I plan to make sure he grows up with stories about her kindness and how much she meant to our family.

    What’s something that’s kept you sane while trying to be a good parent and handling your own grief?

    My faith. Whenever the grief feels overwhelming, I remind myself that God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. It’s also been helpful to lean on my wife; she’s been my rock through this. She reminds me to take things one day at a time, and knowing she’s in my corner makes all the difference.

    Amaka*

    How did you navigate the challenges of parenting while processing your own grief?

    For me, losing both parents felt like I’d lost my safety net. Suddenly, I was the grown-up everyone looked to for strength, including my teenage daughter, who was struggling to adjust. It was overwhelming. But I leaned into routines. It’s amazing how just having set times for meals, conversations, and activities gave us both a sense of stability. I also made sure to surround myself with support. My siblings and friends stepped up when I needed someone to take her for a day or help with chores so I could rest and process my emotions.

    Did the loss change how you raise your kids, or was it business as usual?

    My parents were traditionalists who believed children should be seen, not heard. But their passing made me realise how much I craved their validation growing up. It’s why I’ve consciously tried to be more open with my daughter. I want her to feel seen, heard, and loved, even when we’re not getting along. It’s also a way of healing some of the generational wounds I never addressed with my parents.

    How did you break the news to your kids about the loss, and how do you think it’s shaped them?

    My daughter was old enough to understand what was happening, and it hit her hard. She was close to my mum, who used to pick her up from school, and she struggled with her sudden absence. We had many honest conversations, often late at night when she couldn’t sleep. I told her it’s okay to feel sad and that grief is a process. At one point, we started a ‘memory jar’ challenge — we’d write down happy memories of my parents and read them whenever we missed them. It helped both of us heal.

    What’s the one thing that’s kept you sane while trying to be a good parent and handling your own grief?

    Two things: therapy and community. Therapy helped me unpack my feelings and learn healthy coping mechanisms, and my community — friends, siblings, even my church group — stepped in when I needed them most. They reminded me that I wasn’t alone and that it’s okay to ask for help.

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    Dele*

    How did you navigate the challenges of parenting while processing your own grief?

    I’m still figuring it out, to be honest. Losing my mum while preparing to become a dad is like losing the guidebook for the journey I’m about to start. I’ve tried to channel my pain into action by reflecting on everything she taught me about resilience, kindness, and love. It’s not easy, though. I feel lost sometimes, but I remind myself that showing up for my child is the best way to honour her memory.

    Did the loss change how you raise your kids, or was it business as usual?

    My mum raised me as a single parent, so she was both my mum and dad. She didn’t have much, but she made sure I knew I was loved and capable of achieving anything. Now, as I prepare to become a dad, I want to replicate her ability to make a child feel secure, no matter the circumstances. Her passing has also taught me the importance of prioritising my health, something she neglected because she was always putting me first.

    How will you break the news to your kids about the loss, and how do you think it’ll shape them?

    My child isn’t here yet, but I’ve already been thinking about how to explain my mum’s absence when they start asking about her. I want them to know she was a remarkable woman; much of who I am comes from her. I also plan to create traditions honouring her memory, like cooking her favourite meals or visiting her grave as a family. It’s my way of keeping her spirit alive in our home.

    What’s the one thing that’s kept you sane while preparing to be a parent and handling your own grief?

    I find strength in remembering that my mum didn’t raise a quitter. She always found a way to keep going, no matter how tough things got. I’ve also started journaling my thoughts and feelings — it’s been a great outlet for processing my emotions. And, of course, my partner has been amazing. Knowing we’re in this together makes the journey feel less overwhelming.

    If you feel you might need support with grief or loss, please reach out to a self-help service provider like this one.

  • When it comes to relationships, there are certain things we don’t think about until we’re face-to-face with them—like your partner’s choice of underwear. 

    We asked seven Nigerian men to share their first impressions of their partner’s underwear, and their responses range from hilarious to downright surprising.

    Victor*

    My girlfriend is the definition of a Proverbs 31 woman. She dresses modestly, hardly wears makeup, and always quotes Bible verses. So, imagine my shock when I saw her in a red g-string the first time we got intimate. I had to double-check to make sure it was her. It was like discovering a new side of her, and weirdly, it intensified my feelings for her. 

    Niyi*

    I hate white underwear with a passion. They stain easily, and I don’t even think they’re flattering. When I saw my babe wearing white bra and panties, I was like, “Why this colour?” I didn’t want to offend her, so I casually brought it up, but she wasn’t having it. She said she only wears white because it helps her track her hygiene. I didn’t argue further, but deep down, I still wish she’d consider other colours.

    Lanre*

    The first time I spent the night at my babe’s place, she wore boxers to bed. Not cute satin shorts or anything, just plain old checkered boxers. It threw me off because I’ve always pictured women in sexy sleepwear or something like that. When I asked her about it, she said they were more comfortable than ‘all that Victoria’s Secret nonsense.’ I won’t lie; it took me a while to adjust, and we argued about it a couple of times. But now I buy her boxers whenever I see nice ones, although I specifically go for the hot pants. 

    Joshua*

    I’m obsessed with red; it’s my favourite colour. So, when my girlfriend stripped down for the first time and I saw her in red lace underwear, I was hooked. I told her it felt like she already knew what I liked before we even talked about it. She laughed and said it was just a coincidence. 

    Tobi*

    When I first saw my babe’s underwear, I was worried. They looked old and faded, like she’d worn them since secondary school. The choice of colours was also something I didn’t like. She preferred brown and off-white shades, making it look like she wore granny panties. I wanted to say something but didn’t want to hurt her feelings. So, instead, I started buying her new ones as gifts. She was happy, and I think she eventually got the hint because I haven’t seen those ancient ones since. 

    Kunle*

    The first time I realised my babe doesn’t wear underwear, I was confused. I thought maybe she forgot or something, but when I asked, she casually said, ‘Oh, I only wear them when I’m on my period.’ At first, it was strange because I grew up thinking women always wore panties. But after a while, I got used to it. I won’t lie, though—sometimes it’s distracting because I know there’s nothing underneath. It’s like she’s freeballing her way into my thoughts.

    Ayo*

    My wife has the wildest collection of underwear I’ve ever seen. At first, I thought it was just a coincidence when I saw her in panties with cut-outs on the sides. But then there were lace ones with slits, sheer ones with almost no coverage, and one with a ribbon you had to untie. It’s like she goes out of her way to find the most tempting designs just to keep me on my toes. I asked her once, and she said, “What’s the point of boring underwear?” I have to respect the effort, but I’m always caught off guard.

    READ THIS TOO: 7 Nigerian Women Share Their First Impression of A Partner’s Penis

  • Not all flowers are created equal. Some scream, “I’m hopelessly in love with you,” while others lowkey whisper, “I had no idea what to buy, so I plucked these on my way here.” 

    If you plan to go DIY because a ₦200k flower bouquet isn’t in your budget, you’re in the right place. We’ve ranked nine African flowers to help you dodge “It’s even plastic” energy this Valentine’s Day.

    Protea

    This flower says, “I’m putting serious effort into making you smile.” If you want your crush to know you’re not playing games, this is the one.

    Ranking: So romantic

    Calla Lily 

    First look at this flower and you can tell it exudes soft luxury, and that makes it perfect for the LOYL  who loves the finer things in life. Hand over a bouquet, and you’re halfway to turning that “I’ll consider” to a strong “Yes!”

    Ranking: So romantic

    Hibiscus 

    Simple and gives a strong hint of low-effort vibes. But hey, hibiscus flowers are perfect if you’re going for an “I love you, but I’m not trying too hard” vibe. Extra points if you handpick them yourself.

    Ranking: So romantic

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    Marigold

    These bright orange and yellow flowers are pretty but give friendship vibes, not romance. If you’re trying to stay in the friend zone till thy kingdom comes, by all means, go for marigolds.

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    Bird of Paradise

    This is the drama queen of all flowers, and you have no business associating with it for Valentine’s Day. It’s only perfect for shooting your shot at someone you don’t rate. 

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    African Violet

    Yes, we agree these babies are cute, but you might want to pick something else if you aim to impress. This is the flower you give someone who already likes you, not when you’re trying to win their affection.

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    Bougainvillaea

    Bougainvillaeas look pretty in gardens but as a gift? They’re giving “I didn’t plan for Valentine’s Day, so I plucked these from my neighbour’s yard.” Romantic where?

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    Cactus Flower 

    Yes, cacti bloom, too, but gifting someone you love is borderline disrespectful. It’s like saying, “I love you, but I also want you to know relationships can be painful.” Please don’t do it.

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    Rafflesia Arnoldii

    The corpse flower? For Valentine’s Day? The only thing worse than its appearance is the smell. If you want to end things before they begin, this is your flower. Otherwise, run far, far away.

    Ranking: It’s even plastic

    READ THIS TOO: How to Find The Love of Your Life Before February 14