Nudism and identity in Nigeria

Researching the struggles and gains of Nigerian nudists in a society bound by tradition

Editor’s Note: This article is a summarized version of the author’s complete study, Naked Ambitions: Undress to Impress Nudism & Identity in Nigeria, published previously in March 2024 on ResearchGate and other academic platforms. This summary captures the key insights and findings while condensing the content for a broader audience.

Nigeria's flag depicted as wrinkled cloth fabric | Envato Elements

Conducting research on nudism and identity in Nigeria has been one of the most challenging and daring endeavors of my academic career. As a researcher passionate about exploring social taboos and unconventional lifestyles, as an open and popular nudist, I was drawn to the topic of nudism in Nigeria—the country of my birth and one with deeply rooted cultural, religious, and social norms that prioritize modesty and body covering. My journey was about gathering data but also about navigating a complex web of societal expectations, personal fears, and ethical dilemmas. In the West, the practice of nudism or naturism is often associated with freedom, body acceptance, and a connection to nature. In Nigeria, however, social or communal nudity is particularly controversial.

Despite traditional attitudes, there are individuals and groups who practice nudism in private, driven by desires to challenge societal norms, express themselves, and seek body liberation.

From the outset, I knew this research would not be straightforward. My first challenge was gaining access to this elusive community. Nudists in Nigeria are cautious and secretive due to the potential backlash and legal consequences. Establishing trust was crucial. I spent months networking, attending private gatherings, and engaging in countless conversations to convince participants of my genuine interest and respect for their practices.

Personal stories

Below are takeaways from some of the conversations I had with individuals who secretly practice nudism in the comfort of their homes.

Chukwudi, who has been part of a nudist community for several years, described nudism as a liberating experience. For him, it was a way to break free from societal constraints and feel more comfortable in his own skin. “I've been part of a nudist community for several years now,” he said. “It's been a liberating experience for me, allowing me to feel more comfortable in my own skin and challenge societal norms.” This sense of liberation was not just physical but also psychological, offering a refuge from the pressures of conforming to societal expectations. Chukwudi shared how the societal stigma attached to nudism often leads to judgment and criticism from family and friends who don't approve of his lifestyle.

Chinyere reflected on the broader societal misconceptions about nudism. “I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding and misrepresentation of nudism. Many people associate it with immorality or deviance, without truly understanding its principles. There needs to be more education and awareness to change these perceptions.” She acknowledged the slow but gradual shift in attitudes, influenced by globalization and exposure to different cultures. “With globalization and exposure to different cultures, more people are becoming open-minded about nudism. But it will take time for societal attitudes to shift completely.”

Olumide, who first encountered nudism while traveling abroad, found a welcoming community upon his return to Nigeria. “The biggest challenge is the societal stigma attached to nudism,” he explained. “Many people have preconceived notions about it being immoral or sinful, which can lead to judgment and discrimination. It takes a lot of courage to openly identify as a nudist in Nigeria.” For Olumide, the support from fellow nudists was crucial in navigating these challenges and advocating for greater awareness and acceptance within society. “When I returned to Nigeria, I sought out similar communities and became involved in nudist activities.”

Aisha described how nudism boosted her self-esteem and enriched her relationships by removing judgment and comparison. “Nudism is about liberation and self-acceptance,” she shared. “It’s about embracing my body as it is, without shame or judgment. Nudism allows me to connect with nature and with others in a way that feels authentic and genuine.” Aisha emphasized that nudism had a profound influence on her self-esteem and body image, helping her overcome insecurities and feel more confident. It also enriched her relationships, forming deep connections with fellow nudists who shared similar values and beliefs.

Ibrahim was drawn to nudism as a way to challenge societal norms and embrace a more natural way of being. “I’ve always been interested in alternative lifestyles and ways of living. Nudism appealed to me as a way to challenge societal norms and embrace a more natural way of being. I was drawn to the sense of freedom and authenticity that nudism represents.” Despite facing backlash from friends and family, Ibrahim tried to educate them about the positive aspects of nudism. “Some of my friends and family members have expressed concern or disapproval about my involvement in nudist activities. They worry about the potential social repercussions and stigma associated with nudism.”

Kemi emphasized the positive impact of nudism on body positivity. “Nudism challenges conventional beauty standards and promotes acceptance of diverse body types. When everyone is naked, there’s no room for comparison or judgment based on appearance. Nudism fosters a culture of body positivity and self-acceptance, where individuals can feel comfortable in their own skin.” Kemi’s advice to those curious about nudism but hesitant to try it was to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to challenge preconceived notions. “Start by visiting a nudist private event or hidden resort with a friend or partner for support. Take it at your own pace and remember that everyone is there for the same reason—to enjoy the freedom and connection that nudism offers.”

Ekpenyong brought up the cultural conflict between nudism and traditional values. “Nudism may seem at odds with traditional cultural values in Nigeria, which place a strong emphasis on modesty and decorum. However, I believe that nudism can coexist with these values by promoting self-respect and body positivity. It’s about reclaiming ownership of our bodies and rejecting shame and stigma.” He also addressed common misconceptions, such as the belief that nudism is inherently sexual or deviant. “In reality, nudism is about non-sexual social nudity and respect for oneself and others.”

Ekaette saw nudism as a means to challenge societal norms and promote body positivity. “Nudism challenges societal norms and encourages people to question rigid beliefs about the body and sexuality. By promoting body positivity and self-acceptance, nudism can empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves and reject harmful societal standards.” She pointed out the significant barriers that prevent more people from exploring nudism in Nigeria. “Fear of judgment and social stigma are significant barriers for many people. There’s a pervasive belief that nudity is shameful or indecent, which makes it difficult for individuals to openly express their interest in nudism. Lack of access to nudist spaces and communities is another barrier, as there are few legal or designated areas for nude recreation in Nigeria.”

Nyam critiqued the media’s portrayal of nudism in Nigeria. “The media often sensationalizes nudism, portraying it as scandalous or immoral. There's a tendency to focus on the most extreme or provocative aspects of nudist culture, rather than presenting it in a nuanced and respectful manner. This sensationalized portrayal perpetuates negative stereotypes and misconceptions about nudism in Nigeria.” He emphasized the powerful role media plays in shaping public perception of nudism. “When the media portrays nudism in a negative or sensationalized light, it reinforces existing stigma and makes it harder for nudists to be accepted and understood by society.”

Ayiko pointed out the legal challenges faced by nudists in Nigeria. “The legal system in Nigeria tends to view nudism through a moralistic lens, equating it with indecency or immorality. Laws against public nudity are often based on outdated colonial-era statutes that reflect conservative values and religious beliefs. As a result, nudists in Nigeria face legal risks.” He called for legal reforms to decriminalize non-sexual social nudity and provide protections for nudist communities. “There needs to be greater recognition of nudism as a legitimate form of self-expression and personal freedom. Legal reforms should decriminalize non-sexual social nudity and provide protections for nudist communities and spaces. Nudism should be treated with the same respect and tolerance as other forms of cultural expression in Nigeria.”

These personal stories explore the diverse experiences and perspectives of Nigerian nudists. Each narrative underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the principles of nudism, promoting body positivity, and advocating for legal reforms to protect the rights of nudists. Conducting interviews posed another significant hurdle. Participants were wary of being recorded or photographed, fearing exposure. I had to adapt my methodology, relying heavily on detailed note-taking and ensuring anonymity. My ethical responsibilities were paramount; I had to balance the need for comprehensive data with the imperative to protect my subjects’ identities and safety. Fieldwork was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Visiting nudist homes and private clubs, sharing the liberation and camaraderie we cherished. However, each visit came with a lingering fear of being discovered by outsiders who might not understand or accept this lifestyle. 

An aerial view of Lagos, Nigeria | Shutterstock

Cultural conflicts and nudist practices

Beyond the field, writing about nudism in Nigeria has required sensitivity and nuance. It required presenting an honest portrayal without sensationalizing or stigmatizing the participants. This meant navigating the fine line between academic rigor and empathetic storytelling. I aimed to examine the cultural, religious, and social factors influencing the acceptance or rejection of nudism, offering a balanced perspective that respects all viewpoints. The study explores nudism in Nigeria, focusing on the cultural, religious, and social factors that influence its acceptance or rejection. Traditional beliefs and societal norms often denounce nudist activities, leading to tensions and disputes within communities. Nudists face privacy violations, safety concerns, and societal stigma, which manifests in verbal abuse, discrimination, and legal challenges. Surveys show that a significant portion of Nigerians view nudity as morally repugnant or socially unacceptable, reflected in laws that forbid public nudity.

The study supports initiatives promoting body positivity by investigating how membership in nudist societies affects individuals’ perceptions of their bodies and identities. The goal is to push for legislative changes that protect citizens’ right to practice nudism, decriminalize non-sexual social nudity, and provide protections for nudist communities and spaces.

Comparing Nigeria’s situation with other societies, such as ancient Greece and modern Western societies, brings out the uniqueness and universality of the struggles faced by Nigerian nudists. The most significant struggle, however, was the personal toll this research took on me. Challenging societal taboos comes with its own set of risks. I traveled to Nigeria for several months at my own personal expense. I faced criticism and skepticism from peers and the public, questioning the relevance and appropriateness of my work. At times, the weight of navigating such a controversial subject felt overwhelming. Yet, the stories and experiences shared by the nudists I interviewed kept me going. Their courage to embrace a lifestyle that defies societal norms inspired me to push forward.

Moving forward

Despite the obstacles, the findings of my study have been enlightening. The motivations, beliefs, and experiences of Nigerian nudists are as diverse as the country’s cultural landscape. Some see nudism as a form of rebellion against restrictive norms, while others view it as a path to personal freedom and body positivity. The societal reactions range from outright condemnation to quiet acceptance in more liberal circles.

By examining these dynamics, my study offers a more nuanced understanding of nudism in Nigeria. It sheds light on a hidden aspect of Nigerian society, challenging preconceived notions and opening up discussions on body autonomy and cultural diversity. This journey, fraught with challenges and discoveries, has hopefully contributed to academic discourse and also fostered a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human identity and expression. 

The study draws attention to the need for legal reforms to protect the rights of nudists and promote a more inclusive society. Establishing designated areas for nude recreation and decriminalizing non-sexual social nudity are crucial steps toward creating a safer environment for nudists. Future research should go deeper into the intersections of gender, power dynamics, and nudism. It should also conduct longitudinal studies to examine the long-term impacts of nudist activities on identity development and well-being. Comparative studies across different cultural contexts could also provide valuable insights into the factors influencing societal acceptance of nudism. It is my hope that, in the end, my study, “Naked Ambitions: Undressed to Impress—Nudism and Identity in Nigeria,” will stand as a testament to the power of research to uncover hidden truths and promote understanding. 🪐