Valentine’s Day: FCT revelers throng recreational centres

Cinemas, parks, and other recreational centers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) hosted large numbers of fun-seekers in celebration of Valentine’s Day 2026, despite prevailing economic challenges. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that revelers from different parts of the FCT turned out in large numbers at Genesis and Silverbird cinemas. Some of the […]

Cinemas, parks, and other recreational centers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) hosted large numbers of fun-seekers in celebration of Valentine’s Day 2026, despite prevailing economic challenges.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that revelers from different parts of the FCT turned out in large numbers at Genesis and Silverbird cinemas. Some of the movies on screen for the holiday included Behind the Scenes, Avatar: Fire and Ash, Friends Indeed, and Love and New Notes. Other fun-seekers trooped to Jabi Lake Mall, Central Park, and popular restaurants across the metropolis.

Valentine’s Day, observed globally on February 14, traditionally celebrates romantic love, friendship, and family bonds. It is typically characterized by the exchange of gifts, cards, and goodwill messages.

While many presumed that the high cost of living would force FCT residents to opt for cost-effective celebrations at home, many fun-seekers who spoke with NAN said they felt staying indoors was too dull for a day that comes only once a year.

One resident, who introduced himself as Mr. KC, said, “We all know that Valentine’s Day is special. It comes once a year, so we have to celebrate it no matter what.”

Mr. Dave Johnson, who visited the cinema with his fiancée, added, “It is a day where you spend crucial time with your partner. I wanted to give my baby special treatment today, so I brought her here to watch a movie of her choice.”

Amos Luka, who visited Jabi Lake Mall with his family, noted that the weekend timing was a major factor. “I think the fact that this Valentine’s Day fell on a Saturday gave a lot of people the opportunity to go out,” he said.

The large influx of people also provided a boost for vendors and photographers. One ice cream vendor, who requested anonymity, said patronage was unusually high compared to previous Valentine’s Days in the FCT.

However, not everyone viewed the day as a mandatory celebration. Some residents told NAN that Valentine’s was “just another day” and should not be used to mark “seasonal love.” They argued that love should be celebrated daily, regardless of romantic affiliations.

Ms. Victoria Chukwu said, “I don’t really know the origin of Valentine, but I hear people say it’s a time to show love to one another—something I do on a normal day. It should not just be celebrated among partners; otherwise, those without partners are left out. It should be a time to show love to our neighbors, especially vulnerable persons.”

Similarly, Mr. Dooshima Manah stated, “Honestly, from my viewpoint, Valentine’s Day has always been of no significance. I am not condemning the fact that others find it interesting, but we’re all entitled to our views. I don’t need a landmark or special day to mark my love for anyone.”

Iweka Sharon, a nurse, shared a similar sentiment: “I see Valentine as just every other day—a day to show love to my family and my friends. Maybe because I don’t have a partner, but for me, ‘Val’ is just another day; it’s not really special.” (NAN)