Love is like jollof rice – sometimes it takes time and a sprinkle of magic to get it right.

Don’t forget the power of prayer [Inspired Pencil]

Ah, Valentine’s Day. Three short weeks away, and suddenly, your singleness feels like a neon sign screaming “available

Fear not, fellow solo flyer, for love, like pepper soup on a cold night, can be found even in the shortest of times

Here’s your four-week guide to finding your Valentine.

1. Activate your inner social butterfly

Dust off your dancing shoes, polish your owambe attire, and hit the scene! Church picnics, weddings, and even buka joints are prime hunting grounds. Strike up conversations, flash that killer smile, and remember, confidence is your most attractive accessory.

2. The power of the network

Mama, auntie, even your friendly neighbourhood pepper soup vendor – unleash the power of the Nigerian grapevine!

Let them know you’re “open to viewing,” and who knows, your next date might be just a phone call away

3. Swipe right with a purpose

Ditch the catfish and the low-effort bios. Be upfront about your Valentine’s Day aspirations and scroll with discernment. Remember, quality over quantity, boo!

4. Beyond the DMs

Don’t get stuck in endless text exchanges. Show some initiative, suggest a casual coffee date or a game night with friends (remember, a wingman is always a good idea).

5. Pamper yourself, boo

You are the catch, so treat yourself like one! Get a fresh hairstyle, rock that new outfit, and radiate confidence. Remember, when you feel good, you shine brighter than any diamond.

Red is the colour of Valentine’s Day [Shutterstock]

6. Keep it real, keep it fun

Whether you have a date or not, the most important thing is to enjoy yourself. Relax, have fun, and remember, love can blossom in the most unexpected places.

7. You may want to pray

Now, we all know love can be a tricky business. Sometimes, even with our best efforts, finding your Valentine before February 14 can feel like searching for your car keys under a disco ball. Enter the secret weapon of every Nigerian single – Mama’s prayers. But these aren’t just any kind of prayers, oh no. These are pepper-infused, jollof-seasoned declarations of faith that heat up the love radar and send Cupid scrambling for his arrows.

Mama’s prayers are like pepper in your love stew – they add a little kick and make everything taste better

Remember, love is like jollof rice – sometimes it takes time and a sprinkle of magic to get it right.

So, relax, have fun, and trust that your perfect Valentine might just be around the corner, waiting to share a plate of suya and a plateful of laughter with you. Happy hunting!