ABOUT TIERs
At The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIERs), our mission is centered on advocating for and advancing the human rights of marginalized communities in Nigeria. We focus on three key areas: Human Rights, Sexual Health and Well-being, and Capacity Building. Through our dedicated efforts, we strive to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live with dignity, free from violence and discrimination.
We exist to protect, uphold and promote the rights and humanity of all Nigerians through advocacy, empowerment, education, and the provision of safe platforms of convergence. We were founded in 2005 as a response to the discrimination and marginalisation of sexual minorities in both HIV prevention programming, human rights protection, advocacy, and mainstream human rights work.
Mission
To protect, uphold, and promote the rights and humanity of all Nigerians, especially sexual minorities,
through advocacy, empowerment, education, and a focus on research and knowledge sharing.
Vision
A world where human rights are fully respected, and all people, regardless of sexual orientation or
gender identity, are treated with dignity and equality.
OUR CORE VALUES
EQUALITY FOR ALL We believe that every individual, regardless of their identity, background, or status, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. TIERs is committed to fighting for the equal rights of all, particularly marginalized communities, who have been historically discriminated against. We strive to create a society where everyone has access to the same opportunities and is free from prejudice.
INTEGRITY At TIERs, we hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards. Our work is conducted with complete honesty, transparency, and accountability. We are committed to remaining truthful to our mission and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve, as well as our partners and donors. Integrity guides every aspect of our operations, from how we manage resources to how we engage with stakeholders.
EMPOWERMENT We believe in the power of knowledge and the ability of individuals to drive change in their own lives. Our work is rooted in empowering individuals and communities with the tools, resources, and support they need to advocate for their rights.
COLLABORATION We recognize that the complexity of the human rights challenges we face requires collective effort. Our success is built on strong, strategic partnerships with local, national, and international stakeholders. Whether we are working with grassroots organizations, government bodies, or international allies, collaboration is at the heart of how we achieve our mission.
INNOVATION At TIERs, we embrace innovative and adaptive solutions to address these evolving challenges. We are committed to thinking creatively and strategically to develop new approaches, technologies, and methodologies that push the boundaries of what is possible in human rights advocacy, ensuring that our work remains effective and impactful.
Our commitment to feminist principles drives our efforts to address a wide range of human rights issues.
From building supportive communities to strategic litigation and
evidence-based research, we tackle challenges head-on.
WHAT WE DO
HUMAN RIGHTS. SEXUAL HEALTH & WELL-BEING. CAPACITY BUILDING.
We advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals, ensuring they are protected from discrimination and violence. Through our Sexual Health and Well-being initiatives, we provide crucial education, services, and support to help
individuals make informed choices about their health. Our Capacity Building efforts equip communities and organizations with the skills and knowledge to advocate for their rights
and foster sustainable change. Together, these focus areas drive our commitment to advancing equality, dignity, and justice for all.