Romantic relationships didn’t hold back in 2024, squeezing everyone’s necks from January to December. From couples in matching fits to situationships that tested your mental health but built character, we rounded up some of the hottest trends on the Nigerian dating scene this year.
Deeply personalised gifts
Forget basic teddy bears and cliché flower bouquets—2024 was all about hyper-specific gifting. Nigerians stepped up their game, opting for presents that showed they really paid attention to their partners. The goal? To say, “I know you better than anyone else.”
The secret bae
You’re glowing, your captions are cryptic, and your Instagram Stories keep teasing a blurred-out hand, a silhouette or worse– a large emoji blocking someone in a group photo. This trend has taken the Nigerian dating scene by storm, as people vaguely share snippets of their love lives without revealing too much. Whether it’s to avoid unnecessary attention from village people or keep the relationship free from online drama, the secret bae culture thrives on curiosity. The guessing games in the comments? Pure entertainment.
The hard launch
On the flip side of the secret bae is the hard launch. When Nigerians are ready to introduce their partners to the world, they don’t hold back—they go all out with the pre-wedding shoot. Think Sharon Ooja’s level of hard launch. The general public didn’t know who her fiance was until she announced the wedding, and that’s exactly the vibe many couples embraced this year.
His view, her view
This photo trend has been a favourite among couples since it came on the scene—and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Couples share photos of their dates from their respective perspectives, showing off their partners. It’s nothing serious, just something to press single necks every now and again.
Ice cream dates
Simplicity and whimsy made a comeback in 2024, with ice cream dates leading the charge. While high-end restaurant dinners remain a dream for many, some Nigerians rediscovered the charm of something sweet and casual. Ice cream dates are relaxed, cost-efficient, and perfectly suited for this economy. If it’s going well, you can upgrade to a movie for your next date. If it’s not? Well, at least you got some ice cream out of it.
Long dates
Why go on multiple dates when you can have one that lasts all day—or several days? Long dates became a trend this year, with couples spending extended time together to test chemistry in various settings. Plus, in this economy, saving fuel is a bonus. It’s not for everyone, but it works!
“Let’s Just Vibe” Situationships
Commitment-phobia has a new anthem:” Let’s just vibe”. This go-to phrase is perfect for those who want the perks of a relationship without the labels or effort. It’s all fun and games—until someone catches feelings.
Coordinated fits
Matching outfits are no longer just for weddings and owambes. Couples are stepping out in subtle or fully coordinated looks for casual outings, photoshoots, or even errands. It’s giving power couple energy—or as some might say, “just like my parents in the 90s.”
The surprise visit
This trend, popular among long-distance couples, took the year by storm. One-half of the couple surprises the other by showing up in their city or country unannounced. Because really, what’s romance without a little yearning and surprise?
Curated playlists
Physical love letters may be out, and well-curated playlists are officially in. Nigerians expressed love through music in 2024, by curating special playlists just for their lovers. Some even took it up a notch by embedding playlist links in necklaces for peak romance.
