Alfred Ajayi
Valentine’s Day comes wrapped in red roses, sweet messages, candlelight dinners and endless social media pressure. For many young Nigerians, it feels like a day when love must be proven — loudly, publicly and sometimes recklessly. But beyond the glamour and excitement lies a truth that is often ignored: one careless decision can alter the course of your future.
Love is beautiful. Attraction is natural. Emotions are real. Yet, emotions are temporary — consequences are not.
Every year, after the music fades and the gifts are forgotten, some young people are left to deal with outcomes they never planned for: unintended pregnancies, disrupted education, strained family relationships, emotional trauma and financial pressure. A single night of impulse can create responsibilities that last a lifetime.
Your dreams matter. Whether you are in secondary school, university, learning a trade or building a startup, your future is still under construction. This phase of your life is about laying foundations — gaining skills, building character, establishing direction. Anything that distracts or destabilises that process deserves serious caution.
Valentine’s Day should never become a test of your worth. Anyone who pressures you to “prove” love in ways that make you uncomfortable does not respect you. Real affection is patient. It does not manipulate, threaten and does not demand risky behaviour as proof of commitment.
Underestimating quick change
Many young people underestimate how quickly life can change. An unplanned pregnancy can interrupt education, delay career goals and create emotional and financial strain for both partners. In many cases, one person — often the young woman — bears the heavier burden, facing stigma, school withdrawal or family conflict. Meanwhile, the young man may also struggle with sudden financial responsibilities he is not prepared for.
Protecting your future means thinking beyond today’s excitement. It means asking yourself honest questions: Am I emotionally ready for adult responsibilities? Can I financially support a child if something unexpected happens? Will this decision move me closer to or further from my goals? If the answers are uncertain, caution is wisdom — not weakness.
Social media adds another layer of pressure. Carefully curated posts make it seem like everyone else is living a perfect romantic story. But remember – social media shows highlights, not consequences. What you don’t see are the regrets, arguments, dropped-out semesters or silent struggles that sometimes follow impulsive choices.
Self-respect is powerful. So is self-control. The ability to pause, think and say “not now” is a sign of maturity. It means you value your education, your ambition and your long-term stability more than momentary validation.
For young couples who choose to express their relationship more deeply, responsible decision-making is essential. Ignorance is not protection. Accurate knowledge about reproductive health, consent and personal boundaries is critical. Seek reliable information from qualified health professionals or trusted adults — not rumours or peer pressure.
Responsibility shared
Young men, especially, must understand that responsibility is shared. Respect your partner’s future as much as your own. Do not pressure, manipulate or boast about risky behaviour. True strength lies in discipline and foresight.
Female youths, know your worth. Your dreams are valid. Your body is not a bargaining tool. No celebration is worth sacrificing your education, safety or self-esteem.
Valentine’s Day should be about appreciation, not anxiety. It can be celebrated in many healthy ways — thoughtful conversations, group outings with friends, acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply taking time to reflect on personal growth. Love is not limited to romance; it includes self-love and love for your future self.
One day does not define your relationship status — but one decision can influence your life path. As you celebrate, think long-term. Think purpose. Think potential. The best Valentine’s gift you can give yourself is a future free from regret.
Choose wisely. Celebrate responsibly. Protect your dreams.
