The Guidelines for Proper Online Dating Conduct in Nigeria.

It is no longer news that Nigerians now rely on dating apps to meet and interact with other people and build romantic relationships. This method, though effective, comes with a new set of rules that, when followed, can make your online dating experience much smoother and more successful.

These rules will be helpful for you, whether you are a newbie in the online dating space or an “OG” in this field because they will help you get started safely. They are also helpful if you are an “OG” in this field because they will help you keep having consistent conversations with potential clients safely.

DO: Be Honest in Your Profile

Honesty is the foundation of any strong relationship, starting with your profile. Be honest about who you are, what you do, your relationship goals, interests, and photos. Don’t use overly filtered pictures or lie about your age or status. Pretending to be someone else may get attention at first, but it won’t lead to genuine, lasting connections.

✅ Tip: Use clear, recent photos, and write a profile that reflects your real personality. You don’t have to be perfect—just authentic.

DON’T: Ghost People

Ghosting—suddenly cutting off all communication without explanation—is unfortunately common in online dating. But it’s also hurtful and disrespectful. If you’re no longer interested in someone, take a moment to let them know politely.

❌ Example:

“Hey, I’ve enjoyed chatting, but we’re not a good match. Wishing you the best.”

It might feel awkward, but it shows maturity and kindness.

DO: Be Respectful and Polite

This should go without saying because being polite and respectful will help you make friends even in other types of relationships or conversations. Greet them correctly, use kind words, and avoid overly aggressive or inappropriate language, especially early in the conversation.

This point can’t be overstated in Nigerian culture, where respect and courtesy are highly valued.

✅ Tip: Say “please,” “thank you,” and “good morning.” It shows good manners and stands out.

Don’t: Start with Sexual Comments

This is one of the biggest turn-offs, especially for people looking for something serious. Opening with a comment about someone’s body or making sexual jokes can make the other person uncomfortable and can quickly get you unmatched or blocked.

Online dating is about building a connection, and leading with lust instead of respect is the fastest way to ruin it.

DO: Set Clear Intentions Early

What are you looking for—something casual, a long-term relationship, or a marriage? Whatever it is, make it clear early on. You don’t have to get heavy in the first message. Still, honesty about your intentions helps avoid confusion and saves everyone time.

✅ Example:

“I’m on here hoping to find something meaningful—maybe even someone I could build a future with.”

This clarity will attract people who want the same thing.

Don’t Waste Someone’s Time

If you know you’re not interested in someone, don’t keep chatting just because you’re bored or flattered by the attention. It’s unfair and misleading. Everyone on a dating app is looking for connection—be considerate of their time and emotions.

DO: Make an Effort in Conversations

You matched—great! But the real work starts after that, and it all centers on having good conversations. Don’t send one-liners or one-word replies. Ask questions, share about yourself, and keep the chat engaging.

✅ Example:

Instead of writing something that does not spark conversations like “What’s up?” go through the person’s profile, identify something you can connect with, and send a message around it. For Example, if the person is into sports, you can write, “Have you discovered any new favorite spots in your area recently?”

Showing interest keeps things moving and helps build trust.

Don’t Lie About Your Relationship Status

This should go without saying, but sadly, some people still use dating apps while they’re already in a relationship or married. This behavior is unethical and hurtful.

If you’re single, be single. If you’re not ready to commit or be transparent, take a break from dating until you are.

DO: Respect Boundaries

Not everyone will want to chat late into the night, share personal details quickly, or exchange phone numbers immediately. Could you respect those boundaries? If someone says they’re uncomfortable, please feel free to back off and don’t pressure them.

Boundaries show emotional maturity, and respecting them shows you’re someone worth investing in.

Don’t Rush to Meet In Person

Yes, it’s exciting when the conversation is going well. But don’t be too quick to push for a meetup—especially without enough background or mutual trust.

Give the connection time to grow. Arrange safe, public meetups when both parties are ready, and never pressure someone into meeting too soon.

✅ Safety first: Always meet in public, and let a trusted friend or family member know where you’re going.

DO: Be Patient

Connections don’t always happen instantly. Some chats might fizzle out, some people won’t reply, and some matches won’t lead to anything serious, and that’s okay.

Dating online requires patience. Quitting should not even be part of your vocabulary. Patience is a virtue.

Don’t: Take Rejection Personally

Getting rejection from people you meet from online dating is part of the package. Learning how to handle it is very crucial. When you get rejected, take it and move on. Don’t lash out, insult them, or beg for another chance.

Remember: Everyone’s looking for what fits them best, including you.

DO: Keep an Open Mind

You may have a checklist of what your ideal partner looks like. And while standards are necessary, don’t be too rigid. Sometimes, the best connections come from people you didn’t expect.

Be open to different backgrounds, styles, or even faiths (if you’re flexible). Love can surprise you—let it.

Don’t: Pretend to Be Someone You’re Not

Online dating can tempt you to put on a persona to seem more interesting or likable. But this approach always backfires in the long run. Be yourself—flaws, quirks, and all.

Authenticity is more attractive than perfection.

Final Thoughts: Dating with Grace in the Digital Age

Online dating in Nigeria, like anywhere else, requires a connection, but like anything else, there is a way to approach it. The etiquette told here will help you be emotionally intelligent and respectful and make you look ready for love.

Something real. Go ahead and date, match, and message online—but do it gracefully. The right person will appreciate the effort, and your online dating journey will be much more rewarding.

Also Read: How to Start a Conversation That Gets Replies on a Dating App