Love Life is a Zikoko weekly series about love, relationships, situationships, entanglements and everything in between.
We might sound like a broken record hammering on Love Life stories that take you through varying degrees of “God, when” and “God forbid,” but trust us—you’ll love our playlist this time. These love stories from 2024 felt almost too good to be true, leaving readers smiling, swooning, and occasionally gasping. If you’re ready to give love a shot in 2025, a lesson or ten is waiting for you here.
Love Life: Our Early Days Were Like “Love in Tokyo”
Eseosa and Amara’s story is what happens when intentional dating meets a couple who genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Their quarterly relationship review system had readers taking notes, while their “Love in Tokyo” moments reminded us that sometimes, love really does feel like a rom-com.
Love Life: We’re Proof Being Gay Isn’t All About Sex
This story flipped stereotypes and showed our readers what building a partnership rooted in deep friendship is like. From navigating societal assumptions to keeping their love a secret from family, this story was a masterclass in resilience, mutual respect, and the softer sides of queer love.
Love Life: Diarrhoea Almost Ruined Our First Date
This was one of those love life stories that got our readers wishing for a rom-com adaptation. Shola and Damilola’s first date could’ve been a disaster when nature called unexpectedly, but instead, it turned into a hilarious origin story. Their ability to bond over awkward moments and turn a near-catastrophe into a lifetime of love had readers rooting for them from start to finish.
I Had a Crush on My Customer
This Love Life story had all the makings of a rom-com. A love of cake parfait led to a chance meeting, and the buyer-to-customer love trope left readers swooning. Lighthearted and sweet, it’s the perfect story to revisit when you’re in the mood for something charming and fun.
Love Life: I Fell in Love With My Childhood Friend
Tade and Sonia’s story taught us that sometimes, love needs distance to grow. Their journey from platonic childhood friends to life partners—complete with swindled parents and secret meet-ups—had our readers grinning and swooning in equal measure.
Love Life: His Dad Doesn’t Like Me, But I’m the Love of His Life
This story was as emotional as it was sweet and inspiring. From childhood best friends to forbidden lovers who found their way back to each other, Charles and Jamal’s journey through love, prejudice, and healing is a testament to the power of a safe and supportive relationship.
Love Life: I Didn’t Kiss All Frogs Before I Found My Prince Charming
Is it possible to skip the heartbreak and still find true love? James and Motun proved it is. Their journey from spiritual mentor and mentee to married couple gave readers a lot to think about. Their ability to overcome family disapproval and societal expectations showed that true love doesn’t always follow a conventional path.
Love Life: Nigeria Should Let Us Marry in Peace
If you’re looking for a love story that’ll make you hopeful and angry at the same time, Nduka and Ene’s is it. Their story highlights the everyday struggles and triumphs of queer couples in Nigeria. However, with surprising family support and plans for kids despite societal restrictions, this couple reminded readers that determination can defy even the harshest laws of the land.
Love Life: My Friends Think I’m a Fool for Dating an Upcoming Musician
Tobi and Tare’s story is for anyone who’s ever loved someone against all odds. Between a hustling musician’s chaotic lifestyle and naysayers claiming she’s being played, their relationship shows the beauty of staying true to each other and blocking out the noise. Las las, the heart wants what it wants.
Love Life: We Haven’t Seen Physically in Six Years
Six years, two continents, and endless video calls—Basil and Nnenna’s relationship is a masterclass in how to do long-distance love. With Zoom dinner dates and unwavering commitment, they proved that love doesn’t need proximity to thrive—just two people willing to try. This is one of those stories that left readers wondering if they’re brave enough for such love.
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