The Federal Government has issued a stern advisory warning Nigerians not to use cash to craft money bouquets or similar decorative arrangements in the run‑up to Valentine’s Day, reiterating that such practices breach established currency handling rules.

In a public notice released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), authorities emphasised that folding, stapling, spraying, pinning or arranging naira notes into flower‑like bouquets, towers, cakes and other ornamental forms constitutes abuse of the nation’s legal tender. Such actions are expressly prohibited under the CBN Act and fall under the broader category of naira abuse alongside spraying, squeezing or defacing banknotes.

The apex bank underscored that the naira is nation‑wide legal tender meant for financial transactions, and handling it in ways that compromise its integrity can damage the notes, increase replacement costs, and disrupt automated processing systems. Offenders who contravene the law may face a minimum six‑month prison term, a fine of at least ₦50,000, or both, as provided in the Act.

The advisory, issued just days before February 14, has sparked discussion on social media, with some users questioning the timing and its effect on traditional Valentine’s gift trends. Financial authorities, however, have stressed that the reminder serves as a reinforcement of long‑standing legal provisions, not a special seasonal prohibition.

The government is urging lovers, event planners and florists to opt for lawful and creative alternatives — such as traditional flower bouquets, digital transfers or other non‑currency gifts as a gesture of affection this Valentine’s season.