Valentine’s Day: CBN restates ban on money bouquets, warns against naira abuse
As Valentine’s Day approaches, a 2023 advisory by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) warning against the use of money bouquets has resurfaced, drawing renewed public attention.
The apex bank had categorised money bouquets — a trendy romantic gift — as a form of naira abuse. In a flier posted on its official social media platforms at the time, the CBN grouped the practice with other prohibited acts such as spraying, selling, squeezing and defacing the nation’s currency.
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“It is your civic duty to protect the naira. Report naira abuse today,” the bank said, while also providing toll-free lines for members of the public to flag violations.
The reminder followed the high-profile case of actress and cosmetologist Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, who was arrested in 2023 after a video showed her spraying and stepping on the newly redesigned naira notes during a party.
She was charged under Section 21(1) of the CBN Act, 2007, which stipulates that anyone who tampers with a coin or note issued by the bank commits an offence and, upon conviction, is liable to a minimum of six months imprisonment, a fine of not less than ₦50,000, or both.
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With the season of romantic displays often featuring extravagant gifts, the CBN’s position serves as a caution to Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions that may amount to abuse of the national currency.
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