Abuja, Nigeria —The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reiterated that using Nigeria’s currency to create decorative “money bouquets” or similar arrangements a trend seen in romantic and celebratory gifts amounts to abuse of the naira and is punishable under Nigerian law.
Though not a newly introduced law for Valentine’s Day 2026, the warning has resurfaced in recent days as the holiday approaches, drawing widespread attention on social media and in public discussions.
Under existing provisions of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, conduct such as folding, stapling, pinning, decorating or otherwise tampering with banknotes including arranging them into bouquets, towers, cakes or other showpieces is considered mutilation or defacement and therefore unlawful.
Offenders who engage in these practices could face a minimum of six months’ imprisonment, a fine of at least ₦50,000, or both, according to the law.
The CBN has urged Nigerians to treat the naira with dignity and avoid decorative or festive use that alters its physical state, especially during Valentine’s Day festivities when such gifts may be more common.
While giving money as a gift remains lawful when done through appropriate means such as envelopes or electronic transfer the apex bank says transforming physical banknotes into decorative art crosses the line into prohibited territory.
The renewed attention on currency abuse ahead of February 14 has sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians questioning the timing of the reminder amid broader economic concerns.
