holds Deaf Awareness Campaign in Nigeria, Ghana
By Emmanuel Olagunju
Sign Language Advocates in Nigeria and Ghana have called for greater inclusiveness of deaf people in the position of authorities and recognition of sign languages in the community.
The appeal was made on Saturday during a rally themed ” Walk for the Recognition of Sign Languages” held in Nigeria; Abuja, Lagos , Oyo , Kano , Akwaibom , Kastina , Kwara , Ogun , Plateau , Rivers , Edo and Ghana .
Deaf Advocate and Special Educator, Ms.Omowumi Folarin, while speaking in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, said the walk provided a platform to educate a wider audience about the needs and abilities of deaf individuals .
She emphasized that true support for deaf people begins with understanding them and creating avenues for effective communication, describing sign language the most important tool.
According to her, organizations should make provision for sign language interpreters and ensure that deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals are placed in positions that match their qualifications and abilities. Support, she stressed, should not be offered out of pity but from recognition of the competence and value they bring.
Addressing common misconceptions, Ms. Folarin described as false the notion that deaf people are stubborn or unapproachable, pointing out that their reactions are often shaped by how others treat them.
She also dismissed the belief that sign language is meant only for the deaf and their families, stressing that it is for everyone and can be crucial in emergencies or daily interactions.
She challenged the idea that deaf people should be excluded from social roles or leadership, insisting that they are capable when given the right tools and opportunities.
Highlighting the broader impact of inclusivity, she explained that sign language helps break down communication barriers and ensures that the voices of deaf individuals are heard without denial of rights.
She urged parents and guardians not to deprive deaf children of education, insisting that they are educable and deserve access to resources that will help them thrive.
Ms. Folarin also called on the government to dedicate a portion of the national budget to supporting persons with disabilities. She encouraged the public to learn sign language as a starting point in fostering inclusion, noting that once people understand the language, society will be better positioned to support the deaf community in meaningful ways.
