Adeniyi Oyebade, a Deaf advocate, has launched a foundation aimed at supporting the educational and sporting needs of the Deaf and persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Inclusive News Network on Monday, Oyebade revealed that the initiative, known as the Adeniyi Oyebade Foundation (AOF), will officially kick off with a football competition and empowerment outreach in Ibadan, Oyo State. In September, the foundation plans to visit selected primary and secondary schools in Lagos, Abuja, Kwara, Ogun, and Oyo States to distribute educational materials and conduct career guidance sensitization for students and pupils.
According to Oyebade, the foundation was born out of a deep personal commitment to dismantle the barriers that continue to hinder Deaf individuals in Nigeria. He emphasized that for too long, the Deaf community has been excluded from opportunities in academics and sports—limitations that have negatively impacted both confidence and career development.
“In many Deaf schools, there are no quiz competitions to stimulate academic growth, no football tournaments to showcase talent, and very little encouragement to chase big dreams,” Oyebade lamented. “Yet, I know from experience that Deaf people possess extraordinary talents that deserve recognition, celebration, and support.”
He also expressed concern over the fading recognition of Andrew Foster, widely regarded as the father of Deaf education in Africa. Oyebade affirmed that through AOF, Foster’s legacy will not only be remembered but also carried forward with purpose.
The foundation is guided by a clear set of goals. It aims to provide basic support to Deaf individuals in need, promote access to quality education through scholarships and academic competitions, and empower Deaf entrepreneurs through training and mentorship. Furthermore, it seeks to foster inclusive participation in sports while actively advocating for equal rights and the eradication of discrimination. AOF also intends to drive awareness campaigns that promote community engagement and inclusion.
“AOF exists to show the world that deafness is not a limitation—it is simply a different way of experiencing life. Every dream, regardless of hearing ability, is valid and worth pursuing,” Oyebade said.
Although the foundation was officially registered in 2025, its work began three years earlier. Since its informal inception, AOF has made significant strides in supporting the Deaf community. These efforts have included sponsoring students with school uniforms, purchasing Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms for those seeking tertiary education, and supporting Deaf football initiatives to provide visibility and recognition for talented athletes.
Looking ahead, Oyebade shared the foundation’s strategic focus in the areas of education, sports, employment, and advocacy. In education, AOF plans to organize academic competitions, award scholarships, provide school supplies, and pair students with career mentors. In sports, the foundation will host annual tournaments to empower athletes and open doors to professional opportunities. On the employment front, it will offer vocational training, entrepreneurship mentoring, and small grants to enable Deaf individuals to start businesses or gain meaningful employment. Finally, the foundation will continue to champion policies that ensure equal access and promote social inclusion for all.
Oyebade called on all levels of government to strengthen and enforce policies that safeguard the rights of the Deaf and other persons with disabilities. He urged investment in inclusive education, accessible sports infrastructure, and employment programs that give everyone—regardless of hearing status—the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national development.
He also appealed to the public to embrace a more inclusive mindset. “Let us see abilities, not just disabilities,” he said. “Support the Deaf community by breaking stereotypes, promoting understanding, and creating opportunities. A single act of inclusion can change a life. Together, we can build a Nigeria where every dream is possible, and every voice—spoken or signed—is heard.”
Oyebade urged interested volunteers to join in supporting the vision and mission of the foundation through its website:
www.adeniyioyebadefoundation.org
Or info@adeniyioyebadefoundation.org.
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