ST. VALENTINE’S DAY
As Nigerians join the rest of the world to mark Saint Valentine’s Day with gifts, outings and romantic gestures, the season is also stirring deeper conversations about the true meaning of love in everyday life. In this report, SAMSON EBIRERI explores how couples, youths religious leaders and social observers see Valentine’s not just as a celebration of romance, but as a reminder of compassion, kindness and shared humanity in communities across the country
As Valentine’s season returns with its familiar splash of red roses, heart-shaped gifts and public declarations of affection, many Nigerians are reflecting on a deeper meaning of love — one that goes beyond romance and speaks to everyday compassion, faith and shared humanity.
Perspectives from couples, youth, entrepreneurs
From homes and churches to busy city streets, conversations about love are increasingly shifting from mere relationships to the values that shape human living. For many, the season serves as a reminder that love is less about searching and more about practising.
“I used to hear people say they were looking for love,” said Daniel Pam, a civil servant in Jos. “But over time I realised love is something you build and show every day. My faith teaches me that God is love, and if we truly believe that, then loving others should be natural.”
For Daniel, Valentine’s season carries a special personal meaning. He met his wife three years ago during this same period. What started as a casual introduction grew into a relationship grounded in patience and mutual respect.
“From the moment we met, I made a promise to myself to always show her what it means to love someone genuinely,” he said with a smile. “Love is not only about the big celebrations. It is in the small daily sacrifices, the listening, and the support you give when life becomes difficult.”
His wife, Mary Pam, agrees. According to her, the strength of their marriage lies in consistent acts of kindness.
“People think love is only about Valentine’s Day,” she said. “But for us, it is about how we speak to each other every morning and how we stand by each other in hard times. That is the kind of love that lasts.”
Similar stories echo among young couples who see the season as a turning point in their lives. Grace Yakubu, a fashion designer, recalled meeting her husband on Valentine’s Day several years ago — a meeting that would eventually change the course of her life.
“We met at a friend’s gathering on Valentine’s Day,” she recounted. “We exchanged contacts, then started talking regularly. From conversations came friendship, and from friendship came love. Today we are married, and every Valentine’s Day reminds me of how a simple meeting can grow into something beautiful.”
Grace believes the excitement surrounding the season should inspire people to extend love beyond romantic partners.
“There is so much hardship in the world,” she said. “If we can show love to our families, neighbours, and even strangers, society will be a better place. Love should not be seasonal; it should be a lifestyle.”
Joshua Dung, a university student in Jos, also shared his thoughts on the season.
“I’m not married yet, but Valentine’s season reminds me that love is about intention,” he said. “For me, I spice my love life by writing handwritten notes and planning simple surprises for my partner. It’s not about money — it’s about creativity and making the person feel valued.”
For Zainab Mohammed, a small business owner, love is found in quiet moments rather than grand gestures.
“Being unmarried gives me the freedom to explore love in small, meaningful ways,” she said. “I enjoy cooking special meals and spending quality time talking with my partner. Those quiet moments strengthen our bond more than any grand celebration.”
Faith leaders emphasise compassion, mercy
Religious leaders have also emphasised the broader meaning of love beyond commercial or romantic displays. Pastor Samuel Dabit of a local church in Plateau State noted that biblical teachings consistently encourage believers to love one another.
“The message of love is central to the Christian faith,” he explained. “When we say God is love, it means we are called to reflect that love in our actions — through forgiveness, generosity and unity. Valentine’s season is a good reminder, but love must continue long after the celebrations end.”
Islamic cleric, Sheikh Musa Bello, similarly stressed that love is a core teaching in Islam, rooted in compassion and mercy.
“In Islam, love is not limited to romance,” he said. “It is about showing kindness, patience and mercy to everyone around us. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that a believer should love for others what they love for themselves. When we practise this kind of love daily, we build stronger families and peaceful communities.”
Another Islamic scholar, Imam Abdullahi Sadiq, noted that love in Islam is closely tied to responsibility and good character.
“Love is a guiding principle in Islam,” he explained. “It teaches us to care for one another, support the weak, and forgive mistakes. When people live by love and compassion, society becomes more united and peaceful. This is the kind of love our faith encourages every day, not only during special seasons.”
From an Islamic perspective, love is expressed through mercy, compassion and kindness towards others. The Qur’an teaches believers to show care for family, neighbours and even strangers, emphasising that true faith is reflected in how one treats fellow human beings.
In communities often challenged by economic pressures and social tensions, such messages resonate strongly. Acts of compassion — helping a neighbour, supporting a friend, or reconciling differences — can strengthen communal bonds.
Sociologist, Dr Esther Gyang, observes that human connection remains a powerful force in shaping social stability.
“When people practise empathy and kindness, it creates trust within communities,” she said. “Love, in its broadest sense, is a social glue. It encourages cooperation and reduces conflict. Celebrations like Valentine’s Day can serve as catalysts for reminding society of these shared values.”
As markets buzz with activity and couples prepare for celebrations, many Nigerians see the season as more than a commercial event. It is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the enduring importance of love in everyday life.
“Love is a choice you make every day,” Daniel said. “If we all choose to live by love — not just today, but always — the world would be a kinder place.”
In a fast-changing world often marked by uncertainty, the quiet power of love continues to offer hope. Beyond flowers and festivities, it remains a timeless reminder that compassion, when practised sincerely, has the ability to transform both individual lives and entire communities.