The Federal Government has announced that it has introduced a policy to institutionalise the teaching and learning of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria.
Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, disclosed this on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, themed: ‘Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.’
She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive education, particularly the education of girls, noting that government continues to invest significantly in the empowerment of the girl child.
Garba said government recognises that education is the great equaliser, and inclusion is its backbone; hence, it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind.
According to her, the theme of this year’s celebration is a clarion call – a bold and necessary reminder that inclusive communication is not merely a courtesy but a right, and that government must ensure every girl, including those with hearing impairments, is seen, heard, and empowered to lead change.
‘We celebrate not only the potential of the girl child, but we also reaffirm our collective responsibility to amplify her voice, protect her dignity, and equip her for leadership, regardless of her abilities or challenges.
‘Today, we take that commitment a step further by championing the learning of sign language in our basic education schools. This does not in any way downplay the challenges faced by persons living with other disabilities, but demonstrates that collectively, we can make the world a better place for each other if we try.
‘I would like to remind you that a policy is already in place to institutionalise the teaching and learning of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria.
‘Imagine a country where hospitals, banks, supermarkets, airports, and indeed schools have sign language interpreters – then you will have a system without communication barriers for our hearing-impaired children. That is the vision we are working towards: one school, one change, at a time.
‘Our restructuring policy makes it mandatory for schools to include ramps and other accessibility structures, ensuring that children with physical disabilities can move with dignity and ease,’ she stated.
Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, on her part, said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would continue to remove barriers, widen access, and ensure that every girl, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance, has a voice, a seat at the table, and a path to success in education and life.
‘This moment reaffirms our nation’s commitment to inclusive education, to the rights of persons with disabilities, and to the expansive potential of every girl learner.
‘Today, we are joined by pupils from special-needs schools and regular schools, by colleagues from other ministries and heads of relevant agencies, by dedicated teachers, and by the entire UBEC family. Together, we reaffirm our shared conviction that talent does not wait for perfect conditions; it grows where opportunity, support, and belief come together,’ she said.