Nigeria

Homosexuality in Nigeria is illegal according to paragraph 214 as well as 217 of the Nigerian penal code and can be punished by imprisonment of up to 14 years. The north of Nigeria is Islamic and extremely conservative. As with most large, developing countries, it is not advisable to walk around at night, but rather to take a taxi to and from your destination. This warning should be taken very seriously, indeed, because politicians have been trying to pass harsher punishments for homosexuals for several years already. At this moment in time (11/2011) the Nigerian senate is hence considering a further intensification of the discrimination against homosexuals. Amongst other aspects, their plans also include draconic prison terms for gay marriages or civil partnerships registered abroad. Whether the bill will actually become law had not been decided by the time of going to press. Nigeria is often described as the "Giant of Africa". The country has had a troubled history dominated by military rule which is only now beginning to shake off. Nigerians are extremely friendly and welcoming to foreigners who come to Nigeria, mainly on business. Lagos has however, acquired a reputation as being one of the most dangerous cities in Africa. In actual fact, most travellers who venture out of their air-conditioned hotels are often surprised at how friendly Lagosians are and how much the city has to offer. Lagos is probably the most vibrant city in Sub-Saharan Africa (outside of South Africa). The new democratic government has brought about a revival of nightlife in Lagos with bars, clubs and restaurants springing up everywhere.