ASLIN Advocates Recognition of Sign Language As Official Language For Deaf Nigerians

By Ogunbayo Oluwaseyi, Abuja

The Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Nigeria (ASLIN) is not resting on its oars at achieving professionalism through capacity building to keep its members abreast of International standards and the relevance of new sign language development around them. This was as it organized a three-day convention for its members across the country.

The event among other activities witnessed advocating for recognition of Nigerian Sign Language as official language in Nigeria and to advance the interest of the deaf, Hard of hearing, Deaf-blind, Sign Language Interpreters in Nigeria.

The highly anticipated 2023 Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Nigeria (ASLIN) convention with the “Sign Language Interpreting as a Catalyst for Socio-economic Inclusion of the Deaf,” as the theme set the tone for both transformative and enlightening events.

Addressing the gathering, the president of ASLIN, Timothy Tinat and others including Debra Russel from Canada, Anthony Aramburo and Cynthia Norman from USA spoke passionately on the role interpreters play in breaking barriers both linguistic and socio-economic as well as the need for Sign Language Interpreters to be creative and innovative.

The three-day event witnessed lectures and seminars where issues of the multifaceted aspects of sign language interpreting were extensively treated. Participants both physical and virtual spoke on issues such as leadership training, interpreting online services, advocating for Sign Language as the official Language for the Deaf in Nigeria, amongst others.

The ASLIN 2023 convention had set a clear path for sign language interpreters, Deaf, individuals, and allies to come together to brainstorm and transform the theme into a living reality, paving the way for socio-economic inclusion and a brighter future for the Deaf community across the nation.