Just days before Valentine’s Day 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria has made a dramatic move. The apex bank has classified money bouquets as naira abuse.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions online. Under the CBN Act, tampering with the naira attracts serious penalties. Offenders face a minimum of six months in prison or a fine of at least ₦50,000.
According to the bank, the use of decorative cash bouquets now falls under currency abuse. It joins offences such as spraying, squeezing, selling and defacing banknotes. Therefore, anyone caught presenting cash in bouquet form risks prosecution.
The announcement comes as Valentine’s Day approaches on February 14, 2026. Money bouquets have become a popular romantic gesture in recent years. However, the CBN insists that the naira must be respected.
Social media users wasted no time sharing their thoughts. One user, thefoodnetworknig2, commented, “A win for singles… One down! When are they banning pararan? No peace for the wicked.”
Another user, nimidavies, wrote, “I go use dollars. I too love my babe.”
Chyddo simply wrote, “Single people shout power!!!”
While the reactions appear humorous, the policy has serious implications. Enforcement agencies have been urged to step up action nationwide
.
The CBN bans money bouquets as part of a broader effort to protect the integrity of the naira. Moreover, authorities say abuse of the currency weakens public respect for the nation’s legal tender.
