Nigeria

Despite recent legal assaults on the possibility of LGBTI rights defence in Nigeria, and a wave of violence against sexual minorities in its wake, various events took place for the International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia in Nigeria in 2014.

Press release
Activists issued a press statement which affirms the continuous recognition, promotion and protection of LGBTI rights in Nigeria. It also highlighted the violations of rights that LGBTI people in Nigeria face, and stakeholders’ responsibilities towards the protection and promotion of LGBTI rights in Nigeria.
Screening of new Veil Of Silence Documentary
The documentary was produced by local activists and highlights the situation of LGBTI communities in Nigeria. The documentary features true life stories of LGBTI people, together with health and rights experts, and advocates discussing LGBTI rights, and the implications of denial of their rights. (The documentary was shortlisted for the 2014 British Film Institute Festival and was also screened at the festival on 29th and 30th March in Southbank, London.)
The trailer for Veil of Silence can be viewed here:

Veil of Silence Trailer from The Initiative for Equal Rights on Vimeo.
Violence Report
Activists also launched a landmark violence report which documents instances of LGBTI-related violence in Nigeria, especially since the signing of the anti-gay law in Nigeria in 2014. The report will be used in ongoing efforts for the repeal of the law through evidence-based advocacy.
Other events
Various other events connected also with the 2014 global IDAHOT focus on Freedom of Expression, including a book reading, movie screening and talk show.
For more information see:

• The Initiative for Equal Rights: Celebrating IDAHOT with TIERS
• Amsher: Nigeria IDAHO Day Special