The Nigerian National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) has recorded notable progress in promoting the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of deaf persons across Nigeria during the first quarter of 2026.
Through a series of advocacy engagements, strategic partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives, the Association strengthened its efforts toward advancing inclusive development and ensuring equal opportunities for persons with hearing disabilities nationwide.
Advocacy for Nigerian Sign Language Bill
One of the major highlights of the quarter was an advocacy visit by NNAD to the Chairman of the House Committee on Disability Matters at the House of Representatives of Nigeria, held at the National Assembly of Nigeria in Abuja.
During the meeting, the Association presented a copy of the proposed Nigerian Sign Language Bill and provided detailed explanations on its significance to the Deaf community and the broader Nigerian society. The delegation emphasized that the passage of the bill would enhance communication access, strengthen inclusive education, improve accessibility to government services, and support Nigeria’s compliance with international disability rights obligations.
Push for Inclusion of Sign Language in National Curriculum
In a similar move to promote inclusive education, NNAD carried out an advocacy visit to the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, where it presented a proposal for the inclusion of Nigerian Sign Language in the national curriculum.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for dialogue with curriculum development authorities, leading to strengthened institutional collaboration between the Association and the Council.
Partnerships and Capacity Building
NNAD also participated in the annual Partners’ Annual Reflection and Learning (PARL) Meeting organized by CBM Global Nigeria, which focused on the theme, “Activating Our Creativity for Inclusion.”
Additionally, representatives of CBM Global from the United Kingdom paid a visit to the NNAD headquarters to strengthen collaboration and review ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and inclusion of deaf persons in Nigeria.
As part of its commitment to sustainable development within the deaf community, the Association organized capacity-building sessions designed to enhance advocacy skills and improve service delivery for deaf communities across the country. These efforts also contributed to stronger collaboration with disability-focused organizations and key stakeholders.
Leadership Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusion
Speaking on the achievements recorded during the quarter, the President of NNAD, Mal. Haruna M. Tsafe, reaffirmed the Association’s dedication to advancing the rights of deaf persons in Nigeria.
He stated that the Association remains focused on ensuring that deaf persons are fully included in national development processes through sustained advocacy and strategic partnerships.
Call for Continued Support
The Association noted that its activities during the first quarter of 2026 have contributed to strengthening advocacy, improving access to essential services, and raising awareness about the rights and potential of deaf persons in Nigeria.
NNAD therefore called on government institutions, development partners, and the general public to support initiatives that promote accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
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