Health Initiative for Equal Rights (HIER) in Nigeria marked a significant milestone in advancing inclusion, health & human rights for LGBTQ communities in a highly challenging environment by successfully organizing its first-ever Pride event in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The program featured integrated HIV prevention & testing services where participants received confidential counselling & voluntary HIV testing. A panel discussion brought together community advocates & stakeholders to address key issues affecting LGBTQ persons including safety & security, human rights violations, access to healthcare & strategies for building resilience in hostile environments. These discussions encouraged knowledge sharing & strengthened participants' understanding of their rights & available support systems. The celebration also included cultural & social activities highlighted by a runway beauty pageant that crowned the Face of HIER Nigeria 2026 promoting confidence, self-expression & community visibility. Overall the event successfully fostered community cohesion, increased access to essential health services & strengthened advocacy for dignity, equality & inclusion in Nasarawa State of Nigeria. Richard Brethour-Bell, InterPride’s Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility stated, “Each day at InterPride, we stand up for LGBTQI+ people & their right to live & safely gather in spaces free from violence & discrimination. Now, we can support our members in their fight to gather, change hearts & minds & build a world where LGBTQI+ people are free & equal through the hard-fought-for ability to uplift voices at the United Nations. I am excited for what we can do together.” Since 2023 InterPride was granted Consultative Status at the United Nations.
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