How to have ‘premium’ Valentine’s dates with less than 25k

By Oluwapelumi Olusanjo

With Valentine’s Day just days away, the “Lagos pressure” is officially at an all-time high.

Between surge pricing on ride-hailing apps and restaurants suddenly adding “aesthetic fees” to their menus, dating in Lagos can feel like a financial extreme sport.

However, you don’t need to spend your entire rent to show your partner a good time.

Based on the latest budget-friendly trends for 2026, here is how to own February 14th for under ₦25,000 total (for two people).

“Skate date”

If you want to skip the awkward small talk, try trying not to fall down together.

Skating is nostalgic, high-energy, and a perfect excuse to hold hands for “stability.”

• Location: Purple Lekki

• Price: Approximately ₦12,000 for two (30-minute session).
• Pro-Tip: Use the leftover ₦13,000 for a shared platter of wings and drinks nearby.

“Art date”

Nike Art Gallery in Lekki isn’t just a museum; it’s a four-story palace of Nigerian heritage. Since entry is often free, you can look expensive without actually spending a kobo on the “experience” itself.

• Location: Nike Art Gallery, Lekki

• Price: Entry is free/minimal for tours.

• The Plan: Spend your full ₦25,000 on a solid, delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant after wandering through the galleries.

“Mini-vacation” train ride

For the adventurous couple, a trip to Abeokuta via the rail line feels like a getaway without the flight ticket price tag.

• Location: Mobolaji Johnson Station (Ebute Metta) to Abeokuta

• Pro-tip: Business Class tickets for two cost roughly ₦9,000 (round trip).

• The Plan: Use the remaining ₦16,000 for a climb up Olumo Rock and a legendary lunch of Ofada rice before heading back to Lagos by evening.

“Cinema & chill” 

A movie date is low-pressure and gives you something to talk about on the ride home.

• Locations: Filmhouse, Genesis, or Ozone Cinemas
• Price: Two tickets average ₦12,000.
• The Plan: You’ll have ₦13,000 left for a “Large” popcorn to share and a quick stop for ice cream or suya on the way home.