Practices of non-heterosexual masculinities among MSM in Nigeria

Abisola Balogun, Paul Bissell

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

There is an existing assumption in the singularity in which masculinity and male sexuality in sub-Saharan Africa can and should be enacted and expressed. This narrative is driven by assumptions of a predominantly heterosexual Africa. In Nigeria, particularly, the hegemonic form of masculinity is patriarchal and heterosexual masculinity. Men who deviate from this hegemonic form of masculinity are believed to challenge the prevailing power structures and thus are potentially susceptible to societal stigma, discrimination, and extreme violence. This chapter presents findings from our qualitative research study conducted in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, between January and April 2016. It lends evidence to and acknowledges the existence and myriad of ways in which Nigerian men express their masculinity and sexuality. Given the illegality of homosexual identity and practices in Nigeria, we discuss how men who have sex with men in Nigeria understand and construct meaning around their sexual identities and practices as well as how they manage their non-heterosexual identities. We conclude the chapter with a reflection on the implications for the field of public health.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationQueer in Africa
Subtitle of host publicationLGBTQI Identities, Citizenship, and Activism
EditorsZethu Matebeni, Surya Monro, Vasu Reddy
PublisherTaylor and Francis Inc.
Chapter6
Pages114-131
Number of pages18
Edition1st
ISBN (Electronic)9781315406749
ISBN (Print)9781138222847, 9780367460167
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 May 2018

Publication series

NameRoutledge Advances in Critical Diversities
PublisherRoutledge

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