Spotlight Report: Nigeria 2025

Spotlight Report on the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Voluntary National Review (VNR) of Nigeria

This spotlight report critically examines Nigeria’s 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of LGBTIQ+ persons. Despite Nigeria’s stated commitment to the principle of “leaving no one behind,” LGBTIQ+ individuals continue to face systemic exclusion, criminalisation, and institutional neglect throughout SDG implementation.

This report was developed through the dedication of LGBTIQ+ activists and advocates across Nigeria, with community voices at the centre. It was coordinated and drafted by the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), with technical and logistical support from Pan Africa ILGA (PAI) and COC Netherlands. The collective insights and resilience of LGBTIQ+ Nigerians underpin this contribution to inclusive and accountable development.

SDGs under review in this Spotlight Report:

1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

2. SDG 5 - Gender Equality

3. SDG 8 - Decent work and economic growth

4. SDG 14 - Life Below Water

5. SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

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