Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14, traces its origins to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s orders by secretly marrying soldiers. Imprisoned and later executed for his actions, Valentine became a symbol of love and sacrifice. Although there are several accounts of marking this day as a symbol of love to be celebrated.
Over time, the day evolved from a religious commemoration to a worldwide celebration of romance, kindness, and generosity. However, in today’s economic climate, many Nigerians interpret Valentine’s Day differently—some see it as a time to express love within their means, transcends romance, stretching into families, friendships, while others view it as unnecessary extravagance or just another day on the calendar.
To uncover what Valentine’s Day truly means to everyday Nigerians, I visited Obio/Akpor International Market and streets of Rivers State, where traders, landlords, and butchers shared their perspectives on love and sacrifice.
‘Valentine’s Day is a Time for Reconciliation’ – Fred Wagwula, Landlord
For Fred Wagwula, a landlord at Sars Road, Valentine’s Day is more than just a romantic affair. He sees it as a day of peace and reconnection, particularly among married couples.
“Valentine is something that starts from family. When a misunderstanding happens between a husband and wife, Valentine’s Day becomes the perfect time to forgive, apologize, and move forward,” he shared. Beyond family, he believes love should extend to neighbors and even tenants.
“As a landlord, my tenants are my best lovers. If something happens to me, they will be the first to take me to the clinic. So, Valentine’s is not just for spouses; it is for everyone.”
‘Spend Wisely, Love is Sacrifice’ – Glory Peter, Fruit Trader
Standing behind her neatly stacked fruits, Glory Peter emphasized the importance of showing love beyond material things.
“Love is sacrifice,” she said. “You don’t have to break the bank to show love. Even in this harsh economy, you can still do something small to make someone smile.”
She criticized the way many people focus on Valentine’s Day as a day of indulgence, particularly in sexual activities.
“Valentine’s Day should be about genuine care. You can extend love to the elderly, children, or anyone in need. It’s not just for couples.”
‘A Time to Renew Vows, Not to Go Broke’ – Mrs. Esther Chibuzor, Food Trader
Despite economic hardship, Mrs. Esther Chibuzor believes celebrating love is still necessary. However, she advises couples to be prudent in their spending.
“For couples who don’t want to spend much, just go to a cool, open place, have a meal, and talk. Renew your vows, make each other feel special,” she suggested.
She emphasized that Valentine’s Day should not be about pressure or extravagant spending but about appreciation.
“Love should be celebrated daily, but on Valentine’s, make it a little extra special.”
‘Valentine is Just Another Day’ – Mrs. Joy Igwe, Tomato Seller
For some, like Mrs. Joy Igwe, Valentine’s Day holds no special meaning.
“I don’t see the need to celebrate it. Love should be expressed every day,” she said, busy arranging tomatoes in baskets.
She firmly disagreed with the popular belief that Valentine’s Day is about romance and passion.
“Sex doesn’t have a day. People should focus on meaningful love and not just relationships.”
‘Social Media Has Ruined Valentine’s Day’ – Cynthia Samuel, a customer
Cynthia Samuel, a young woman passionate about charity, believes the true essence of Valentine’s Day has been lost to social media pressures.
“People now equate love with money, expensive dates, and flashy gifts,” she lamented. “If I had the capacity, I would cook and share meals with destitute people. That’s what I believe Valentine’s should be about.”
She also criticized how social media makes those who are single feel left out.
“You don’t need to be in a romantic relationship to celebrate love. Love should be for everyone.”
She further emphasized that Valentine’s Day should be treated like other celebrations, such as Easter and Christmas. “Love is a sacrifice, and it should not be reduced to just buying gifts for partners. True love is giving and caring for those who need it most.”
A common concern among respondents was the misconception that Valentine’s Day revolves around sex. “Many people, especially the youth, have turned it into something it’s not,” says Samuel, a youth.
Beyond the Hype: Is Valentine’s Day Necessary? —Godwin James, Butcher
For Godwin James, a butcher in the market, the idea of setting one day aside for love does not sit well.
“Valentine’s Day is not necessary,” he stated bluntly. “Looking at the economy now, people should focus on surviving, not buying gifts.”
He also feels that social media has put unnecessary pressure on people to celebrate Valentine’s in a way that is financially draining.
“Love should be celebrated daily, not just one day in a year.”
‘Being Single on Valentine’s is a Blessing’ – Royce Gift, Chef
Royce Gift, a self-proclaimed “single pringle,” sees Valentine’s Day as an opportunity for self-love.
“Valentine’s day is a day for me to relax and have a really nice meal prepared at home, but it doesn’t necessarily mean going outside. No, I think it is not necessary. If you have a partner, you will always celebrate your supposed Valentine’s Day any time of the year. It does not have to be on February 14.”
For her, being single is both a blessing and a burden.
“I don’t know because I’m single, I cannot relate. But for me, it’s a blessing because I get to enjoy love in my own way and don’t have to wait for someone to love me first. I can take myself out if I want to. It might be a burden or a blessing. It’s not a day for sex but rather a day to read your Bible, reflecting on love through the letters of the apostles.”
For young people, she had a word of caution:
“Don’t steal from your parents to impress someone. Spend wisely and stay within your budget.”
‘Government Should Focus on Sacrificing for the People’ – Abdul Raza
For Abdul Raza, Valentine’s Day holds no significance. Instead, he believes the government should focus on being sacrificial for the citizens.
“Valentine was someone who did good and sacrificed himself. Our government should do the same so we can remember them and celebrate them.”
Conclusion: A Day for Love in Many Forms
From landlords to traders, butchers to chefs, the people of Obio/Akpor International Market have shared their thoughts on Valentine’s Day. For some, it is a day of reconciliation and renewal; for others, it is just another day. While social media and financial burdens have altered perceptions, one thing remains clear: love should be celebrated every day, not just on February 14th.
So, whether you are celebrating with a partner, sharing with the less fortunate, or simply taking a moment for yourself, Valentine’s Day is ultimately what you make of it. In a time of economic hardship, perhaps the best way to celebrate is to show kindness, extend a helping hand, and spread love—without breaking the bank.
