Nigeria’s federal authorities have launched a nationwide scheme to make sign language a core part of lessons in every primary and junior secondary school, ensuring that children with hearing difficulties can join in fully with their classmates.
The move, unveiled on Thursday to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, seeks to build a fairer classroom where no young person feels sidelined. Under the banner “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today”, the plan highlights how clear communication helps every girl shine, no matter her background or challenges.
Aisha Garba, who heads the body overseeing basic education, called the effort a vital step towards true fairness in schooling. She explained that learning is the best way to level the playing field, and weaving in sign language shows a real promise to back girls’ growth. “Picture a land where doctors’ offices, shops, banks, travel hubs, and classrooms all have people ready to chat in sign language,” she said. “That would wipe away the walls that keep our hearing-impaired youngsters from joining in. We are chasing that dream, school by school, step by step.”
Garba added that while hurdles remain for those with other needs, this push proves everyone can pull together to make life smoother for all.
The education deputy minister, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, backed the idea warmly, saying the current leaders are dead set on clearing roadblocks and opening doors wide. She stressed that every girl deserves a say, a place to sit, and a clear route ahead, whether in lessons or beyond. At the gathering, which brought together pupils from regular and special schools, fellow officials, teachers, and support groups, Ahmad noted: “This day reminds us of our pledge to fair schooling, to standing up for those with disabilities, and to unlocking the gifts in every young girl. True skill thrives not in spotless setups, but where chances, help, and trust meet.”
To get the scheme underway, sign language will become a must-learn skill in basic schools, alongside other tweaks like adding ramps and easy paths for those with mobility issues. This fits into a larger overhaul to make public spots welcoming for everyone.
Over recent years, efforts to spread sign language in Nigeria have picked up steam, helping deaf and hard-of-hearing people connect better. While home-grown signs vary by region, many schools and helpers now draw on a widely used style from America to keep things consistent.
