Google Search data show that Valentine’s Day will be different for Nigerians in 2026

Valentine’s Day in Nigeria looks nothing like it used to. Google’s latest search data shows people are swapping dinner reservations and red roses for friend group parties, elaborate money bouquets, and couples spa treatments.

The biggest shift? Valentine’s Day is no longer solely for romantic partners. Searches for “Galentine’s Day party,” which focus on celebrating friendship rather than romance, increased by 140% in the first week of February.

This trend has been growing over the past few years, peaking in 2025, and it continues to rise as Nigerians organise gatherings with their friends instead of traditional date nights.

More people are being creative with their celebrations. Searches for “money bouquet for Valentine” are increasing quickly, along with custom cake designs and Valentine’s gift bags. People prefer more personalised gifts that look good in photos rather than generic ones.

Valentine’s Day searches show self-care over romance

A surprising trend this Valentine’s Day is dental packages. More people in Nigeria are searching for “valentine couple package for dental,” showing they value a bright smile more than chocolates.

Spa treatments have also become popular, with couples looking for “spa couples valentine package ideas” and combo deals at salons.

This shift toward pampering reflects a broader shift from high-pressure date nights to relaxed experiences. Instead of rushing through an overpriced restaurant meal, couples want activities they can actually enjoy together, whether that’s a spa day, a weekend getaway in Lagos, or even a Valentine’s photoshoot.

Men, in particular, are leaning into the aesthetic. “Valentine photoshoot ideas for boys” is now a breakout search term, showing guys are just as invested in capturing the moment as their partners.

Also read: Natasha Akpoti, iPhone 17, Straw movie top Nigeria’s most searched trends on Google in 2025

Long-distance love and digital gifting

Distance isn’t stopping anyone. Searches for “Valentine messages for boyfriend long distance” jumped 380% in early February, while queries about gifts for new relationships increased 180%.

Nigerians in long-distance relationships are leaning on digital communication to bridge the gap, turning to creative text messages and video calls rather than physical gifts.

The data reveals other interesting patterns: Valentine’s bag searches quadrupled, hairstyle queries spiked 270%, and people are actively searching for church youth programs and school activities tied to the holiday.

It’s not just couples celebrating; entire communities are building Valentine’s into social calendars.

Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Google’s communications manager for West Africa, noted that Nigerians are being more deliberate about celebrations this year. “People are using Search not just to find products, but to find inspiration and the ‘how-to’ for making their celebrations unique,” she said.

The trends suggest Valentine’s Day in Nigeria is evolving into something broader than romance; it’s becoming a celebration of relationships in general, whether that means friendships, self-care, or creative expressions of love across distances.

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