Now despite the strides towards equality around the world, homosexuality remains a crime in some 69 countries, almost half of them in Africa.
But in Nigeria, Africa’s cultural powerhouse, social media is supporting an LGBTQ renaissance.
Despite a recent law prohibiting everything from gay marriage to supporting gay organisations, queer pioneers are coming out to campaign for the right to live the life they want.
We spoke to two influential young activists who are demanding to be seen and heard.
Producer: Ashionye Ogene.
Filmed by Franklin Adegbie.