Flowers are trending on Obasanjo’s internet, and it’s not because Madam First Lady harvested them from her efo tete farm in Abuja.

Apparently, if a man has never thought to buy you flowers, some people online believe he probably doesn’t know how to do romance properly. Anyway, on this fine Saturday afternoon, I made it my business to ask these Nigerian women what they think of flowers. Here’s what they had to say. 

Chinwe*

I’ve never received flowers. It would be nice to experience what I see in movies, but it’s not a deal breaker if I don’t get them from a partner. I prefer handwritten notes and text messages at special moments, as well as kind gestures that reassure me of his love.

Bimpe*

Honestly, I have mixed feelings. I once got a bouquet from a friend, and I don’t know if it was the flowers or whatever they sprayed on them, but I ended up with red bumps on my face. Now, when I get them, I keep my distance. If you’re a potential lover, I’ll tell you upfront that I’m not keen on them.

Abibat*

Please, take them away from me. I’ve never seen the point since the flowers will die in a few days. I’m a sentimental person. I’d rather have something I can hold on to for longer—something that’ll remind me of you when we’re thousands of miles apart.

Chinaza*

I used to like flowers until I heard how much they cost. Please find a garden and pluck as many as you want, but don’t spend ₦500k on a bouquet that’ll wilt in a few days. Give me the money, or better still, spend it on an experience I’ll cherish.

Hauwa*

I’d always appreciate a gift of flowers. It’s sweet, and there are ways to utilize the leaves after they wilt. If the flowers are roses, you can make rose water from them. But if I had to choose, I’d pick a proper gift. Flowers shouldn’t be the whole gift; they can be add-ons given as a thoughtful gesture when it’s not a special occasion.

Dara*

I’d prefer a money bouquet. But if the flowers come with other gifts, that’s fine too. To me, flowers represent love and affection, but yes, throw in something that’ll make me think of you when you’re out of sight.

Chinwe*

Yes, please! I sometimes buy flowers for myself, so why not from a lover? Send me flowers when you’re thinking of me, when I’m celebrating a milestone, when I’m not feeling well, or just because. I’m a flower girly all day, every day.

Temi*

I think flowers are symbolic and beautiful. I get one from my partner every month. Each flower has meaning, so it’s a thoughtful way of expressing love. Only those who understand these nuances will see flowers as a love language.

Read this next: 6 Gifts Your Nigerian Girlfriend Definitely Wants You To Buy

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