As global attitudes towards LGBTQ+ identities continue to evolve, the portrayal of these communities in media becomes increasingly vital for fostering understanding and acceptance. Nigeria, like many other nations, grapples with a history of conservative values and legal frameworks that significantly impact the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ representation in Nigerian media has frequently been negative, echoing broader societal stigmas. Stereotyping, misrepresentation, and the fear of public backlash contribute to a dearth of authentic portrayals of queer individuals in Nigerian media. For instance, in the early 2000s, homosexual relationships in movies were taboo, often depicted as cautionary tales with negative consequences befalling characters involved. In these movies vital aspects of LGBTQ+ experiences were often overlooked or misrepresented.
25-year-old Demi, a movie lover says: “In most Nigerian movies there seems to be an overwhelming focus on identifying as a queer person rather than embracing the idea of being an individual who happens to be queer. It is crucial to emphasise our unique journeys in navigating daily life, encompassing aspects such as religion, relationships, the impact of homophobic laws on our everyday experiences, friendships, and relatable shared experiences that everyone can connect with.”
The introduction of laws such as the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act in 2014 has further complicated the portrayal of queer characters in Nigerian media. The pervasive influence of conservative beliefs, coupled with laws like the SSMPA, fosters a climate of censorship, hindering creators who wish to explore diverse narratives. For instance, when “Ife,” the first Nigerian movie with a positive portrayal of lesbian relationships, was produced in 2020 by Pamela Adie and Uyai Ikpe-Etim, it faced significant backlash. The movie couldn’t be released in cinemas due to censorship from the National Film Video Censors Board (NVCB), necessitating an online release for a global audience. The subsequent year saw Marvel’s “Eternals” banned by the NVCB from showing in Nigerian cinemas due to a scene featuring a homosexual couple sharing a kiss.
The impact of adequate representation in the media cannot be overstated. “I’ve encountered fragments of subtle representation in Nigerian media, and each instance I’ve come across has provided a profound sense of validation. Representation holds significance, manifesting in both subtle and significant ways. The sheer joy and reassurance of knowing you’re not alone, discovering there are others who share similar experiences, create a liberating feeling,” remarks Demi.
Despite challenges, positive developments signal a shift in the landscape. Digital platforms have become a refuge for LGBTQ+ representation in Nigeria, enabling creators to tell nuanced stories beyond traditional media constraints. Web series, online publications, and independent films have fostered authentic portrayals, presenting a more diverse range of narratives. Nigerian creatives are increasingly incorporating LGBTQ+ characters into their work, as seen in new movies and series like “14 Years and a Day,” “Ixora,” and “Wura,” which provide realistic depictions of queer relationships. This shift is crucial for challenging stereotypes and fostering empathy.
The global discourse on LGBTQ+ rights has also influenced conversations in Nigeria. International films, television shows, and social media have played roles in broadening perspectives and challenging ingrained biases, underscoring the impact of global representation on local narratives.
Without a doubt LGBTQ+ representation in the media directly impacts public perception. Authentic portrayals humanise queer individuals, fostering empathy and challenging prejudiced attitudes. Increased visibility contributes to dismantling stereotypes and normalising diverse expressions of love and identity. Consequently, efforts towards LGBTQ+ representation in Nigerian media should prioritise intersectionality, recognizing the diversity within society, spanning ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, and gender identities.
When asked why representation in media was important to them; members of the LGBT+ community in Nigeria had this to say;
“Significant representation matters to me as it aids in challenging the internalised programming I harbour regarding queer individuals, dispelling fears about their ability to lead fulfilling lives or even their existence. Witnessing someone with a similar lived experience confronting real-life challenges and emerging triumphant instils hope in me, affirming the possibility of my own resilience” – Alexandra, 28
“Encountering individuals like myself in movies offers a profound sense of companionship, dispelling the isolation often felt. On-screen representation possesses the transformative ability to reshape societal perceptions, debunking the notion that we are mythical creatures, contrary to societal narratives. It is crucial for media to portray that we are capable of leading rich, fulfilling lives, challenging the stereotype of a life marred by suffering solely due to our queerness.”- Joy, 29
“The current state of LGBTQ+ representation in Nigerian media is undeniably lacking. Media plays a pivotal role in driving change and fostering acceptance. Increased circulation and normalisation of LGBTQ+ narratives would contribute significantly to how we are perceived. Diversifying portrayals by featuring LGBTQ+ individuals in various roles could facilitate broader societal acceptance. Highlighting shared experiences serves to raise awareness and enhance understanding of the challenges we encounter. This, in turn, holds the potential to significantly benefit the queer community. In essence, representation matters.” – Demi, 25
Analysing LGBTQ+ representation in Nigerian media reveals a complex interplay of challenges and progress. Despite persistent conservative forces, there is a noticeable shift towards more inclusive narratives. The power of storytelling, underestimated at times, enables Nigerian media to contribute to a more understanding and tolerant society. The journey towards comprehensive LGBTQ+ representation is ongoing, and each nuanced portrayal brings us one step closer to a more inclusive future.
