There is a growing number of dating apps available to Nigerians living in Nigeria. In this article, three Nigerian women talk about using dating apps. 

black girl using her phone

Dami, 27

I downloaded Bumble a few months ago. This is my first time using a dating app. I chose Bumble because my friend told me that the app is designed to make women make the first move. It’s also an inclusive app — I was able to indicate that I like both men and women on my profile. Sometimes, I forget I have Bumble on my phone and I miss people’s messages. 

So far, I have met some pretty cool people and had a couple of dates as well. I met a guy I liked and things are going well but he has a girlfriend. We have had sex but I am afraid of catching feelings for someone that’s already committed to someone else. I have a date with a woman in a few weeks and I hope that works out fine. 

IB, 23

I was on tinder for two years, off and on. It was a fun experience. It exposed me to different kinds of men, some I didn’t even know existed. I first joined during the Christmas holidays in 2018. That’s when all the IJGB’s (I just got back) are around. I went on dates, texted a lot of people and I thought I had found the one so many times. 

I deactivated my account during Christmas in 2019. During the pandemic, I downloaded it again and I was almost addicted to it. That’s when I met a lot of crazy men. There was this guy that asked for my number as soon as we swiped right. He insulted me when I refused to give it to him. He unmatched me after. Werrey. 

There was a time where Tinder allowed you to change your location to any country. I spoke to people from the Netherlands and South Africa. I found someone who lived streets away from me. I made a friend with someone in an open relationship. I met an old classmate. I even saw my ex-boyfriend on Tinder. All these relationships have faded to hellos here and there. 

I don’t consider tinder connections as real. We’re all just disposable cups. Use when you need. Discard when you’re done. I’m done with Tinder for now and I am seeking to make actual connections.

Nene, 23

I stayed away from dating apps because of how the ways they can be misused but last year, I was bored and I decided to sign up for one. I met a couple of cool people but I could sense the relationships were going to be a hit and move so I deleted the app. I’m looking for love the old fashioned way now. 

Subscribe to our newsletter here.

OUR MISSION

Zikoko amplifies African youth culture by curating and creating smart and joyful content for young Africans and the world.