The Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) has called on the federal government to adopt sign language as one of the country’s official languages and include it in the national educational curriculum.
Speaking at the 34th Annual General Meeting and General Election held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Acting National President of NNAD, Haruna Tsafe, emphasized that integrating sign language into the education system would enhance accessibility and communication for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. He further urged state governments to enact disability bills to foster inclusion and remove physical and social barriers for persons with disabilities.
In her remarks, Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to passing the Disability Bill, highlighting the importance placed on the rights of individuals with disabilities under Governor Dapo Abiodun's administration.
Adeleye, represented by Special Adviser Ayotunde Lawal, praised the meeting’s theme, "Sign Up For Sign Language Rights," and stressed that sign language is not just a communication tool but a key to equality, education, and employment. She noted that the state government has contributed significantly to promoting and recognizing sign language rights in collaboration with the disability community.
Ogun State Chairman of the Association of the Deaf, Rasheed Salami, also thanked the state government for its ongoing support of the disability community and for hosting the annual meeting.
The NNAD's appeal aims to improve the lives of people with disabilities and push for greater inclusion and understanding through the recognition of sign language across Nigeria.
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