The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has stepped up enforcement of existing currency laws ahead of Valentine’s Day 2026, cautioning Nigerians against using naira notes to make money bouquets, cash towers, money cakes, or other decorative arrangements. The apex bank emphasized that such practices constitute naira abuse under Section 21 of the CBN Act.
Titansloaded reports that the law prohibits tampering with, folding, stapling, pinning, spraying, or otherwise misusing legal tender. The CBN highlighted that these actions damage notes, reduce their lifespan, increase replacement costs, and erode respect for the national currency.
The viral trend of money bouquets where naira notes are folded or rolled to resemble flower petals and often combined with roses has gained popularity as Valentine’s gifts. Vendors and social media influencers have promoted luxury versions blending cash with flowers, but the CBN stressed that romantic or cultural traditions do not exempt anyone from compliance.
Offenders face penalties including a minimum six-month imprisonment, fines of at least ₦50,000, or both. The bank urged the public to report violations and reminded that protecting the naira is a shared civic duty. Enforcement agencies are intensifying actions nationwide, particularly during the Valentine’s Day period when such gifts peak.
The CBN clarified that this reminder is not a new law but a reinforcement of longstanding rules covering similar abuses, such as spraying money at events, writing on notes, or selling currency informally. Public reaction on social media has been mixed, ranging from humorous takes to concerns that the focus diverts attention from larger economic challenges like inflation.
As safer alternatives, the bank recommended traditional flower bouquets, direct bank transfers, cash in envelopes without alteration, or non-cash gifts to express affection. With Valentine’s Day approaching, Nigerians are urged to celebrate love without violating currency laws. The message is clear: affection may be priceless, but mishandling the naira can come at a high cost.
