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Birthdays in Nigeria aren’t just about turning a year older — they’re full-blown celebrations. Whether it’s a small gathering, a surprise party, or an all-out owanbe, birthdays are a big deal. And with every celebration comes one important element: birthday wishes.
For many Nigerians, sending and receiving birthday messages isn’t just a formality; it’s a way of showing love, appreciation, and gratitude for friendships that have stood the test of time. Tolu, 28, puts it best: “If my best friend doesn’t post me with a long, emotional caption on my birthday, we’re fighting. Birthday messages are a love language!”
But let’s be honest, not everyone knows how to craft the perfect birthday wishes and messages. Whether you’re trying to be funny, heartfelt, or downright poetic, we’ve got you covered. This article features real messages you can copy, tweak, and send to your besties without stress.
Birthday Wishes for your Best Friend
A best friend’s birthday is the perfect chance to show how much they mean to you. Whether you’re emotional or straight to the point, a thoughtful message can make their day.
For Chioma, 26, it’s a must. “If my bestie doesn’t send a long message or post a throwback, I’m revoking their friendship card!”
Need the right words? We’ve got sweet, funny, and heartfelt messages to help you celebrate your closest friend.
- Happy birthday, bestie! You’re not just my friend; you’re my chosen family. I pray this year brings you endless joy, success, and everything you’ve ever wished for. Love you forever!
- Happy birthday to the one person who knows all my secrets and still sticks around. You deserve an award (or at least cake).
- You’re getting older, but don’t worry, I’ll still be here to remind you of all your embarrassing moments. Have a fantastic birthday, bestie!
- Another year, another reason to remind you that I’m the better-looking friend. Happy birthday!
- Happy birthday to my day-one, my gist partner, my personal hype squad! May today be as incredible as you are.
- You’ve been my rock through thick and thin, and I’m forever grateful for you. Happy birthday, bestie! I hope this year brings you nothing but happiness.
- To my partner in crime, happy birthday! Here’s to another year of laughs, inside jokes, and the kind of friendship that gets better with time.
- Happy birthday, my ride-or-die! This year, expect even more crazy adventures and unwavering support. You know I’ve always got your back!
- Happy birthday, bestie! You know me better than anyone, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Here’s to another year of our incredible bond. Have a beautiful one!
- Happy birthday, my friend! May God’s blessings be upon you today and always. May your year be filled with success and happiness, and may our friendship continue to grow stronger.
- To a friend who’s like family, happy birthday! May your day be as wonderful as you are, and may your future be filled with all the blessings you deserve. You are truly cherished.
- Happy birthday to the most wonderful friend I’ve ever had! May your year be as sweet as chin-chin and as fulfilling as a well-deserved holiday. Enjoy your day!
- To my irreplaceable best friend, happy birthday! Get ready for a year as wonderful as you are. Let’s make it one for the books. Can’t wait to celebrate you when we hang out later today. Also, how many dozens of birthday cakes do you want?
- Yes!!! Look who made it to the 25th floor in one piece? You! Wishing you a vibrant and lively birthday, bestie! You bring so much energy into my life, and I’m so grateful for you. Rooting for you all the way!
- Happy birthday, my friend! May God’s blessings be upon you today and always. May your year be filled with success and happiness, and may our friendship continue to grow stronger.
Birthday Wishes for a Male Friend
Contrary to popular belief, men appreciate thoughtful birthday messages just as much as women. Whether it’s a quick “Happy Birthday, bro” or a heartfelt text, it shows you care.
For Tunde, 27, it’s a sign of respect. “I might act like I don’t care, but if my guys forget or just drop a dry ‘HBD,’ I’m taking notes.”
Want to make your guy friend feel seen? Here are birthday wishes that’ll do the trick.
- Happy birthday, my guy! You’re more than just a friend, you’re family. Wishing you more money, more peace, and more life this year!
- To my brother from another mother, happy birthday! May your new age come with bigger wins and greater blessings.
- Bro, you’re the realest friend anyone could ask for. I appreciate you today and always. Have a fantastic birthday!
- Another year older, and you’re still not taller? Tragic. Have a great birthday, though!
- Happy birthday, my G! Hope your day is filled with good food, good company, and all the things that make you happy.
- To my guyest guy, na man you be! Happy birthday, and here’s to you and all the good things coming your way this year. Have a great one, bro!
- You’re more than just a friend to me, you’re like a brother from another mother. Have an amazing birthday!
- You’re simply a wonderful friend, and each year that passes only makes you more so. Happy birthday, man. I wish you all the best things in life!
- Happy birthday to the man who laughs at my silliest jokes and stands beside me during my darkest hours. I’m blessed to call you my best friend. Where’s the party at, bro?
- Hey man, I probably don’t say this enough, but you’ve been there for me in every single way — lifting my spirits and brightening my days. I don’t take any of it for granted. Today’s all about you, and I’m glad I get the chance to celebrate you. Here’s to you on your birthday, my dear friend!
- My bro, you have a gift for making everyone feel included and valued. Keep being the amazing person that you are. Don’t change it for anybody, not even me. Happy birthday, man. Love you.
- Let’s toast to 30 years of an amazing friend who keeps getting better with age. Happy birthday, and welcome to the third floor! Can’t wait to see all you achieve in this phase.
- Happy birthday to the most hardworking and ambitious person I know. I have no doubt the year ahead will bring you even more joy and success.
- Happy birthday, bro! May this year bring opportunities that push your boundaries and take you to places beyond your wildest dreams.
- Wishing you a fantastic birthday, man! May this year shower you with the same happiness and laughter you give to everyone else.
Birthday Wishes for a Female Friend
If there’s one thing Nigerian women love, it’s words of affirmation — especially on their birthdays. A sweet message, long or short, goes a long way in making them feel special.
For Taiye, 29, birthday wishes are everything. “If you don’t write me a proper birthday message, are we really friends? I want to cry and blush when I read it!”
Need help making her smile (or cry happy tears)? Here are some birthday wishes to get you started.
- Happy birthday, my love! You’re a gem, and I’m so lucky to have you in my life. May this new year bring you everything you deserve and more.
- To my sister from another mister, happy birthday! May your joy be full, your bank account be fat, and your skin continue to glow.
- You’re such a kind, beautiful soul, and I’m grateful for your friendship. Wishing you love, happiness, and success this year!
- Happy birthday, my babe! May you never experience bad hair days and always see your enemies before they see you.
- Sis, happy birthday! May your husband locate you this year, but until then, we ball.
- Another year older and finer? God really has favourites. Enjoy your day, queen!
- Happy birthday, babe! If there’s one thing I can bet my life on, it’s that you’ll always show up for the people you love. I hope today, the world returns that love to you in full measure. Have the best day ever!
- My bestie of life! Today is all about you, and you deserve nothing but the absolute best. May this year bring you unlimited joy, success, and soft life.
- To my loudest hype woman, happy birthday! From the way you scream my name when you see me to the way you always find a way to make me laugh, I don’t take your energy for granted. I pray this year brings you endless joy, soft life, and more reasons to dance.
- Happy birthday, my beautiful friend! May this new age bring you more wins, more love, and more moments to be your beautiful, authentic self. You are magic, and the world is lucky to have you.
- Happy birthday, sunshine! Your energy is infectious, your kindness is unmatched, and your vibes are always top-tier. Here’s to another year of greatness. Can’t wait to see you today.
- Happy birthday, baby girl! I still remember the first day we met. I knew instantly you were my kind of person, and years later, you still are. Thank you for always being you. I pray this year brings you more love, money, and stress-free enjoyment.
- Best girl ever! Another year older, wiser, and finer. I love you to the moon and back, and I pray this year brings you endless joy and peace.
- Happy birthday, my favourite human! Remember the time we stayed up all night gisting about life, love, and our unrealistic soft-life plans? I pray this new year brings you closer to everything we dreamed of (especially the private jet lifestyle). You deserve it all.
Short & Sweet Birthday Wishes for a Friend
Not all birthday wishes have to be deep — short and sweet can be just right! Whether it’s a quick text, WhatsApp status, or IG caption, a simple message can still make someone feel special.
Need something quick but meaningful? Here are fun, short birthday wishes to send.
- Happy birthday, bestie! May your joy be full and your bank account fuller.
- Wishing you love, laughter, and soft life this year!
- Happy birthday! May your glow never dim in this life, and may your money grow like grass! LMAO.
- Another year older, wiser, and finer! Enjoy your day, superstar.
- May this new year bring you more money, more blessings, and fewer problems.
- Congratulations! You’ve survived another year of ignoring red flags and spending recklessly. Proud of you!
- You’re older today, but are you wiser? LMAO. Come and beat me, I’m in my house. Anyway, have a good one, man. Lurh you!
- Cheers to another year of making questionable decisions together! May this one come with sense… and maybe a rich man.
- Hey you! Keep aging like the fine wine that you are! Meanwhile, when are we throwing a party with your money?
- My main man. Cheers to another year of not being able to grow a full beard! Stay blessed, though.
- Congrats, you’re officially an old man!
- I wish you all the best things life’s got to offer on this day. Happy birthday, dear.
- New year, new adventures, new everything! Happy birthday, you!
- I wish you nothing short of a super amazing year filled with wins and successes. Have a great one.
- Hey you, here’s to wishing you a year filled with beautiful memories and unlimited success stories. Go kill it!
- Sending the warmest of hugs today, my G. Stay blessed.
- Here’s to even more trips around the sun! Happy birthday, boo!
- Cheers to you for being nothing short of incredible. Happy birthday!
- Happy birthday to my beautiful bestie!
- You make everyone’s lives so much better just by being yourself. Happy birthday!
- Shout out to the best person in my life. Happy birthday!
- I knew we would always be friends, and I’m so happy to still be in your life all these years later. Happy birthday!
- Another year older, still no sugar daddy? What a shame. Wishing you love, money, and sense in this new age!
- I hope you feel so loved today. Happy birthday!
- Here’s to wishing a happy birthday to the coolest and funniest friend anyone could ever have!
- Hey you! Happy birthday and best wishes to you. I’m happy to have you for another year!
- Wishing you a year of happiness, excitement, and prosperity!
- Happy birthday to the truest friend I’ve ever known.
- Wishing you the happiest of all birthdays, and thank you for being my best friend. I love you!
- To know you is to know the true gift of friendship. I wish you a beautiful year ahead filled with even more happiness!
ALSO READ: How to Love Your Birthday Even Though You Low-Key Hate It
Funny Birthday Wishes for a Friend
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate a friend is with premium dragging. Birthdays are the perfect excuse to roast them about their life choices, ageing bones, and unfulfilled big dreams — all in good fun, of course.
As Hassan (27) says, “My friends love trolling me on special occasions. If they don’t drag me on my birthday, I’ll assume they don’t love me.”
If you’re after the perfect mix of insult and affection, here are some funny birthday wishes to make your friend laugh (or side-eye you).
- Happy birthday! May your problems be as small as your attention span.
- Another year older, wiser, and still single. God, when?
- You’re aging like fine wine… or maybe like bread left in the sun. Either way, enjoy your day!
- I was going to get you something expensive, but then I remembered you still owe me money. So, here’s my love instead.
- Happy birthday! Don’t worry, I’ll still be your friend even when you start using anti-aging cream.
- Congrats on surviving another year of bad decisions. Let’s make some more!
- Since it’s your birthday, I won’t remind you of how much of a troublemaker you are. Just enjoy your day… for now.
- You’re officially too old to lie about your age. But don’t worry, I won’t expose you (yet).
- Another year, another reminder that we’re still broke together. Cheers to more years of struggling in peace!
- Another year of being my unpaid therapist. Don’t worry, I’ll get you a proper gift… next year.
- You made it to another year without blocking me. I’m genuinely impressed.
- Happy birthday, bro! You’re officially one year closer to becoming a sugar daddy (if only your bank account would cooperate).
- One more year of slaying, suffering, and smiling. I’m just here to remind you that you still owe me birthday jollof from last year!
- Happy birthday, boss! We’ll allow you to form big man today, but after this? Back to normal.
- Another year, another opportunity to finally reply to messages on time. We both know you won’t, but happy birthday sha!
- Birthday girl! You’re getting older, but don’t worry, your secret is safe with me… unless someone offers me some birthday cake.
- Happy birthday, bro! Since you love free things, I’m giving you the gift of my friendship for another year.
- Today is your day! Order that extra meat and soft drink with confidence. Nobody can judge you today. Happy birthday to my laziest gym buddy!
- Happy birthday, my dear! I pray that this year, men will stop stressing you… or at least stress you with money.
- Congratulations! You survived another year without catching feelings for the wrong person. Let’s aim for two in a row.
- Birthday shoutout to the only person who understands my madness! I’d get you a thoughtful gift, but my presence in your life is already a blessing.
- Today is the one day I won’t drag you for your life choices. Enjoy it while it lasts.
- Happy birthday, my love! I promise to be nice today. But tomorrow? Back to regular programming.
ALSO READ: Love Messages: How to Write The Perfect One & 250 Messages From Real Nigerians
Birthday Prayers for a Friend
For many Nigerians, birthdays are a time to reflect, give thanks, and receive prayers for the year ahead. Whether it’s a simple “God bless you” or a message filled with divine wishes, prayerful birthday wishes mean a lot.
“I love it when people pray for me on my birthday,” says Chinyere, 30. “It makes me feel loved and reassured that the new year will be even better than the last.”
Want to send a faith-filled message to someone special? Here are some heartfelt birthday prayers to choose from.
- May this new year bring you abundant joy, divine favour, and unending blessings. May God’s grace shine upon you always. Happy birthday!
- As you celebrate another year, may the almighty Allah go before you, guide your steps, and grant you success in all you do. Wishing you a birthday filled with Allah’s rahma!
- May your life be filled with peace, laughter, and the fulfilment of God’s promises. This new age will usher in greatness beyond your imagination. Happy birthday!
- I pray that the almighty Allah strengthens you, gives you wisdom, and blesses you with good health and happiness. You shall know no sorrow in this new year.
- May your days be filled with testimonies, your nights with peace, and your future with unlimited favour. The best is yet to come. Happy birthday!
- On your special day, I pray that the Lord’s protection surrounds you, His love fills your heart, and His purpose for your life unfolds beautifully.
- You are a blessing to the world, and I pray that blessings never cease in your life. May your cup overflow with joy, and your path be lined with divine breakthroughs.
- As you celebrate today, may your heart be filled with gratitude and your life be filled with open doors, unlimited opportunities, and everlasting happiness.
- May the almighty Allah bless the work of your hands, crown your efforts with success, and grant you all your heart desires in alignment with His will. Happy birthday!
- This year, may you walk in favour, live in joy, and experience the fullness of God’s love. You are destined for greatness, and nothing will hold you back. Have a beautiful birthday!
- Dear friend, as you celebrate another year of life, I pray that God’s presence is palpable in every moment. May this new year bring you closer to His heart, and may His guidance direct your paths. May you be filled with a deeper sense of purpose, and may your faith be strengthened as you trust in His goodness.
- Your life is a gift from almighty Allah, and I am grateful to Him for all the blessings you bring into this world. Happy birthday!
- God of all blessings, thank you for my friend and the joy they bring to my life. Bless them with a year of happiness and fulfilment.
- Lord, as my dear friend celebrates another year of life, I pray for your abundant blessings to be upon them. May your grace continue to guide and shape their path, filling their days with love, purpose, and joy.
- Dear God, today I bring my loved one before you on their birthday and pray for your blessings and guidance over their life. Thank you for leading and guiding them. Help them to know how loved they are. Bless and protect them in the year ahead. May they know your peace and strength when they wake, and your comfort and rest when they sleep. May their future be filled with hope. Amen.
- As we celebrate your birthday, I thank the almighty Allah for placing you in my life. May your day be filled with joy, reflection, and hope for the year ahead, and may he continue to bless and protect you all the days of your life.
- Wishing you a birthday filled with the joy of the Lord. May His presence be with you today and always, guiding your every step.
- On your special day, I ask that God grant you a sense of calm and tranquility, even in the midst of chaos. May you be reminded that you are not alone, and that God is always with you, guiding and protecting you. May this birthday be a celebration of life, hope, and renewal.
- Happy birthday, my dearest. May the quiet whispers of God’s love be the loudest song in your heart today. I pray for moments of profound peace and unexpected joy in your coming year.
- Hey bestie! May your birthday be a gentle reminder of your inherent worth and the unique light you bring to the world. I’m praying for a year of purpose, passion, and profound peace.
- On your birthday, I’m praying for your well-being — both body and soul. May you experience deep rest and rejuvenation, and may your spirit be filled with hope and optimism. May you always know how deeply you are loved and cherished.
- As you embark on another year, I pray that you are guided by divine wisdom and purpose. May you discover new passions and talents, and may your life be filled with meaningful experiences. May you always walk in integrity and kindness, and may your actions reflect the love that resides within you.
- On your birthday, I’m holding you in prayer for strength, clarity, and the courage to chase the dreams the almighty Allah has planted in your soul. May you feel His unwavering support every step of the way.
- May this birthday bring you closer to your true calling. I pray that you are blessed with opportunities to use your gifts and talents to make a positive impact on the world. May your life be a testament to the power of love and compassion.
- On your birthday, I’m praying that you experience a profound sense of God’s purpose for your life. May you walk in His light, and may your path be filled with joy and fulfilment. May your heart always be open to His guidance, and may you find strength in His love.
- On your special day, I pray that you are surrounded by the love and support of your family and friends. May your relationships be strong and enduring, and may you always find comfort in the embrace of your community. May your birthday be a day of great celebration and joy. Happy birthday!
- As the candles glow, may your heart be filled with the warmth of God’s love. I pray that you find strength in His promises and joy in His presence throughout the coming year.
Birthday Wishes for Friends in Nigerian Pidgin
Sometimes, proper English is just too serious for the kind of cruise you want to catch with your guys. Pidgin makes everything sweeter, funnier, and straight from the heart.
Whether you want to crack your friend up or show love the Naija way, these Pidgin birthday wishes will do the trick.
- Wetin be birthday if e no come with money and enjoyment? Oya, today na your day to chop life! More years, more blessings!
- Na you be the best person I know. Wetin you deserve pass normal birthday. Na the whole world I suppose give you. Happiest birthday, my G.
- Clear road! Make we no do any other thing today than to celebrate you. Today na your birthday, and you deserve the shutdown and more.
- You na better person. E don tey wey we meet, and I no regret say I know you. You don add plenty happiness to my life. My life for no make sense if I no sabi you. On this day wey your mama born you, I dey pray make God prosper you and make Him blessings fall like rain for where you dey. You deserve everything wey dey good for this life.
- My brother, close friend, my cartel nigga. We fit yab and quarrel for Africa, but I still cherish you die. Longer days, tallest! Blissful days and more chikitos to you, lol. Happy birthday!
- Happy birthday! May you live long to use your mouth talk all the good good things wey God don do for you. Anybody wey dey waka bad waka for your matter go waka tire, dem no go see you. You go dey go, dey come, and bad thing no go happen to you. Amen.
- As today na your special day, I pray make your wahala reduce, your money increase, and your joy full ground! Happy birthday, my padi!
- Shey na today dem born you? Na why everywhere dey shine like this! My gee, na only better better things go follow you this new year.
- See as you fresh today! No forget say age na number, but enjoyment na choice. Make sure say you flex well today. Happy birthday!
- My guy, another 365 days don land, and you still dey shine! More life, more grace, and more money wey pass Dangote own.
- Birthday na once a year, so no reason am — today na for flexing! May your new age come with better levels and no wahala.
- If dem ask me wetin I wish you, na plenty money, good health, and jollof rice wey no go finish! Happy birthday, my person!
- Omo, e be like say you dey use age do investment, because how you still fine like this? More life, my padi!
- Today na your day, my gee! May your pocket dey heavy, your problems dey light, and your happiness no get ending.
- Dem go talk say na just birthday, but for me, e no be small thing. You be blessing to us, and we dey thank God say you dey.
- Na God dey give life, and on this day wey your mama born you, I wan take am thank God for your life and for how Him take create you well. Make merriment because God don butter your bread.
- Happy birthday to my babes and more! Only you na babes. As you take fine, na so your year go take fine. Happiness go yanfu-yanfu for this your new year. Cheers!
- Na great pleasure and thing of joy say I be your friend. I dey send my good wishes and dey throway my salute to where you dey on this day. Happy birthday!
- Na fantastic birthday I wish you. Na my prayer say anything wey you wish for, make life bring am come your doormot, and as e come, make you dey there to receive am. Amen.
- Na more fruitful years to celebrate in good condition and sound mind I wish you. Happy birthday!
- Make God favour you in all you do. For this season, make you enjoy a good year.
- Na my prayer say everything you dey pray for you go achieve am sharp-sharp. Amen.
- Happy birthday to my personal person. Na she dey make my head go tirin-tirin. As dem born you today, silver and gold I no get to give you. But wetin I get, I go give, and na my prayer say make God bless you.
- Happy birthday, my padi! As you add another year, I pray say happiness go dey follow you everywhere you waka.
- Oboy, e don tey wey you land this earth. Happy birthday! I dey pray make your days shine like your fave. Shine-shine bobo.
- As you dey blow your cake, make every blow carry yawa comot from your life. Happy birthday, my paid!
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