A Nigerian social media user has sparked widespread laughter and a serious conversation after sharing the amusing description she used for a recent bank transfer. The post, which quickly went viral, highlighted a common but often overlooked aspect of everyday banking in Nigeria.
The Viral 'Periwinkle' Transaction
On January 3, 2026, a lady identified on the X app as @miebivalentina posted a screenshot of a transaction she had made. Instead of a typical note like "payment for goods" or "loan repayment," the description field simply read: 'periwinkle'. Periwinkle refers to a small, edible sea snail, making its use in a financial context particularly absurd and funny.
Sharing the screenshot with her followers, the lady captioned the post: "Infact, the funniest description on my transfer the other day made even me laugh." The image, credited to her X account, spread rapidly across social media platforms, drawing amused reactions from countless netizens who found the random description highly relatable and humorous.
Nigerians Weigh In on the Importance of Transfer Narrations
While many laughed at the post, it ignited a significant debate in the comments section about the critical importance of the description field in bank transfers. Many users pointed out that this field is not just for fun but serves as a vital record for future reference, especially during disputes.
User @Finder Prof warned, "Dey play, maybe u don't know dat what u put in 'description' of the money transaction is very important bcos of future arguement btw d parties." This sentiment was echoed by others who highlighted the legal and practical implications.
@Josh_migofficial gave a scenario: "Make I write support and you later deny in court that I didn't give you contract." Another user, @ibrahimbolodeokua, questioned how one would prove a payment was for a project if the recipient later claimed it was a gift or support.
The discussion evolved into a crowdsourced list of appropriate descriptions. Users like @scentboss_lagos and @royal_rose850 suggested clear labels such as:
- Gift
- Personal money
- Refund
- Loan repayment
- Salary
- Business Expenses
- School fees
- Medical support
- Family support
- Rent payment
However, some users questioned the system's effectiveness. @Kara noted, "This narration won’t do anything oo na just for u to keep account ooo," suggesting its primary use is for personal record-keeping. @ZADOK GADGETS raised a point about deposits, stating that bank deposit slips often lack a narration section altogether.
Broader Implications for Business and Personal Finance
The conversation took a practical turn for business owners. User @WHOLESALE BAGS IN BENIN posed a critical question: "If a business owner receive 100 transaction a day. All the 100 customers will write gift? How can 100 transaction be gift? And the next day too another 100 transaction gift? And again to a business account for that matter." This highlighted the potential scrutiny from tax authorities or financial auditors when transaction descriptions do not match the account's purpose.
Another user, @MikeKinrin, sought advice on how to label a gift to a married sister with a new surname, acknowledging that even gifts can be investigated. This underscores the growing awareness among Nigerians about the need for transparent and accurate financial documentation.
The viral moment, while lighthearted at its core, successfully turned the spotlight on a crucial everyday financial practice. It served as an informal public service announcement, reminding people that a few words in a description box can have lasting legal and financial significance.
