Nigerian Deaf Community Advocates for Sign Language Bill

The Nigerian Deaf community has called on the National Assembly to accelerate the Nigerian Sign Language Bill, which aims to establish a Nigerian Sign Language Council for the regulation and standardization of the language. This appeal was made during an advocacy rally in Abuja, coinciding with the International Day of the Deaf and International Day of Sign Languages.

Mr. Haruna Mohammed Safi, the National President of the Nigerian National Association of the Deaf, emphasized the need for greater inclusion of the deaf community in governance, education, healthcare, and employment, as well as improved access to quality education and socio-economic opportunities. He also highlighted the importance of inclusion in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr. Mohammed Abba Isa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, represented the Nigerian Government and reaffirmed the administration's commitment to inclusive governance. The rally included representatives from the deaf community, government officials, and various stakeholders.