By Olayinka Ajayi

Nigerians at the just-concluded Toronto Pride Parade 2025 have called for support for equality, fairness, and respect for all gender identities.

Speaking on the event, a Nigerian participant, a resident in Toronto, Ogechi Nwokolo, said, “The turnout is massive, and I am more than happy to be reconnecting with the movement. Proudly LGBTQ2+.”

On her part, Chidera Ikejie, another Nigerian, shared her support, emphasising the significance of the event. “I have never seen such a powerful and commanding force. LGBTQ2+ rights matter.”

Also speaking, iryimana Israel, a Nigerian who, conveyed his solidarity added saying “They deserve equality, respect, fairness, and equity.”

Ifeanyi Micah Mbamara, a Nigerian protester, conveyed his solidarity, saying, “Like everyone here, I want to show love and support to LGBTQ2+ community members worldwide. They deserve equality, respect, fairness, and equity.”

Abosede Olabisi Oyejide another Nigerian activist, highlighted the core demands of the community: inclusiveness, respect for sexuality, and acceptance. According to her, She and every LGBTQ genders are happy and proud of their sexuality as a bisexual woman.

Also, another Nigerian, Mr. Sherif Rotimi Salawu, has come out with his full chest to openly support LGBTQ members. Mr. Salawu said he is tired of hiding his true sexual identity for fear he could be unlawfully arrested and or killed. He urged the Nigeria Federal Government to pass law legalizing homosexuality in Nigeria.

Another of the protesters Nduka Violet Oby is calling on the Nigeria Federal Government to abolish the same sex Act criminalizing any form of same sex relationships. According to her, the world is now more civilized and Nigeria Federal Government must stop the discrimination against LGBTQ members. Oby further praised Canada for its recognition and protection of LGBTQ2+ rights and call on Nigeria to emulate such progressive policies.

Also another Nigerian protester Mr. Akinsanya Temitope Adedeji, stated that he was born a bisexual and can’t change who he is. He urged the Nigeria Federal Government to understand that some persons like himself were born this way and they cannot change it, hence he is appealing to the Nigeria Federal Government to legalize same sex relationship and make LGBTQ lives her priority.

Also one Sunday Obi Oliver stated that he is excited to be here today. According to him, he had been living in self denial all his life. According to Sunday, it feels good to see lots of beautiful faces who also share in the same sexual interest with him. He stated that since his arrival in Canada, he has had no reason whatsoever to look over his shoulder like he did back in Nigeria. According to Sunday, he is happier being who he is and that he is proud of his bisexuality.

The event also featured first-time participant Giwa Yetunde. In a heartfelt speech, Yetunde called on Nigeria and other African nations to abandon oppressive laws and embrace LGBTQ2+ rights. “I urge the Nigeria Federal government to veto laws criminalizing same-sex relationships. They should allow LGBTQ2+ individuals to breathe freely,” she said.

She emphasized, “We hope that Nigerians and African leaders will rethink their stance and pass laws that protect and legalize LGBTQ2+ rights. Until then, we remain hopeful and optimistic.”

Apparently the parade was a historic moment for Toronto, with organizers noting that the crowd was the largest since the inaugural Pride Parade in 1981. The event symbolized love, support, and solidarity for LGBTQ2+ communities worldwide.

While celebrated in Canada, many challenges remain elsewhere. In Nigeria and other developing countries, LGBTQ2+ individuals continue to face criminalization, imprisonment, and discrimination.

Reflecting on this, a spokesperson expressed hope that the voices and visibility from events like Pride 2025 will inspire change globally. “We earnestly hope that Nigeria and other nations of the world, will reconsider their laws and recognize the rights of LGBTQ2+ people. Until then, we are afraid they may have to keep hope alive, and remain optimistic.” Today’s celebration in Toronto stands as a testament to the power of unity and the ongoing struggle for equality worldwide.