Acheli Obidah Fwa
Residents across Adamawa State turned out in colourful displays of affection and celebration on Friday as Valentine’s Day was marked with joy, reflection and family gatherings.
Parks and recreational centres across the state were filled with children, parents and friends sharing laughter, exchanging gifts and enjoying moments together. The atmosphere was lively, with many residents dressed in white and red outfits — symbolic colours of the day — adding vibrancy to the environment.
For many, February 14 remains a day dedicated to expressing love and appreciation. While some marked the occasion with gifts and outings, others organised religious and family-centred activities to reflect on the deeper meaning of love and companionship.
Laura Jesse, who spoke with journalists during an outing, described the day as deeply personal.
“Valentine’s Day to me is a day of showing love, especially to someone I love so much. I feel this is a special day to show him my appreciation for all the years we have spent together. That is why I took him out today to enjoy this day together,” she said excitedly.
Adamu Idris said he sees the occasion as a reminder of daily commitment to loved ones.
“This is the day I mark as love day, not just to my family alone, but to all my friends, family and colleagues. I see this day as a day of reminding my wife that I love her daily and to show my children I also care and love them,” he said.
He, however, cautioned against what he described as misconceptions surrounding the celebration, noting that some people misinterpret the day’s significance.
Children were not left out of the festivities. Seven-year-old Daniel Chineda beamed with joy as he shared his excitement.
“I’m so happy that my mummy brought me out to take ice cream today,” he said.
Florence Jesse, who took her children out for treats, described the day as an opportunity for reflection and bonding.
“We are celebrating love, peace, joy and happiness today. It’s a moment of reflection to appreciate all the people around me. That is why I took time to bring my children out for fun and enjoyment to make them feel happy and loved,” she said.
Similarly, Mr Joshua Jackson expressed concern over negative behaviours sometimes associated with the day.
“It’s unfortunate that a lot of people have turned this day into something else. Valentine’s Day to me is a day of expressing sincere and pure love to one another,” he maintained.
Mohammed Nafiu, who was also spotted with his family at a recreational centre, admitted that his daughter reminded him of the special date.
“My little daughter had to remind me that today is Valentine’s Day and I need to take them out for ice cream. I had no choice but to show my family that I truly love them,” he said with a smile.
Across Adamawa, the celebration reflected a shared desire for togetherness, appreciation and warmth, as residents embraced the spirit of the season in their own unique ways.
