The Central Bank of Nigeria has reportedly outlawed the use of cash bouquets, warning that the practice amounts to defacing the naira and attracts stiff penalties.
The directive, coming days before Valentine’s Day, has sent a strong signal to Nigerians planning to gift money in decorative forms.
According to the CBN Act, anyone found mutilating or tampering with naira notes, including arranging them into bouquets, risks a minimum of six months’ imprisonment or a fine of at least N50,000.
Authorities say the move is part of broader efforts to protect the integrity and value of the national currency.
The apex bank has also urged members of the public to desist from the practice and report offenders, as enforcement agencies are expected to intensify monitoring nationwide.
The development has triggered widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians jokingly considering flowers, chocolates, or other creative alternatives instead of cash gifts this Valentine’s season.
