Exploring local community beliefs: Stakeholder perceptions of LGBTQI+ acceptance in Nigeria

In the past few decades, the world has seen progressive and regressive movements in the acceptance of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons as well as the acknowledgment of their rights. This study explores the perceptions of various stakeholders regarding LGBTQI+ acceptance in Nigeria. This study employs a descriptive research design of the survey type. The population of the study consisted of all stakeholders such as religious leaders, policy makers, health officials’ community leaders and law enforcement officials. The sample for the study consisted of 602 stakeholders selected through the use of multistage sampling procedure. A structured questionnaire, grounded in Social Identity Theory, was used to collect data on demographics, in-group identification, attitudes towards LGBTQI+ individuals, perceived group norms, and the influence of community leaders. Surveys was distributed both online and offline to maximize reach, with data collection facilitated by trained research assistants. The research questions raised were answered using frequency count, percentages and bar charts. The finding of the study revealed that prevailing attitudes towards LGBTQI+ individuals in Nigeria are predominantly negative, with significant resistance from religious leaders, cultural, religious, and social factors significantly shape attitudes towards LGBTQI+ individuals in Nigeria, there are a significant lack of recognition of constitutional protections and human rights provisions that could offer some level of protection, prevailing laws and policies in Nigeria, such as the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act and sections of the Criminal Code, contribute significantly to the negative perception and treatment of LGBTQI+ individuals. To address the deeply entrenched negative attitudes towards LGBTQI+ individuals in Nigeria and promote greater acceptance, several recommendations are proposed. Legal reforms are essential; the Nigerian government should prioritize repealing discriminatory laws such as the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (SSMPA) and sections of the Criminal Code that criminalize LGBTQI+ identities and relationships. Enacting legal protections that ensure the rights and safety of LGBTQI+ individuals is crucial for reducing systemic discrimination and violence. Second, comprehensive public education campaigns are needed to combat misinformation and challenge negative stereotypes about LGBTQI+ individuals among others.