The Federal Government has unveiled plans to integrate sign language into Nigeria’s basic education curriculum, marking a major stride toward inclusive learning and equal opportunities for all children.
This policy, announced by the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, aims to ensure that learners with hearing impairments can fully participate in classroom activities across the country. Garba made the announcement in Abuja on Thursday during the celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, themed “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”
According to her, the initiative reflects the government’s determination to make education accessible to every child, irrespective of physical or communication challenges. She described education as “the great equaliser” and inclusion as its foundation, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to breaking barriers that hinder equal learning opportunities.
Under the new directive, sign language instruction will become a mandatory component of the basic education curriculum, ensuring that schools nationwide adopt communication methods that accommodate children with hearing impairments.
“We are not only celebrating the strength and promise of the Nigerian girl child,” Garba said, “we are also reaffirming our duty to protect, empower, and give her a voice — no matter her challenges or abilities. Today’s decision to promote sign language learning is a tangible step in that direction.”
She revealed that UBEC has already developed a policy framework to institutionalise sign language education and improve school infrastructure for learners with disabilities. These improvements will include the construction of ramps, accessible classrooms, and other facilities that make schools more inclusive.
Garba envisioned a future where public and private institutions across the country from hospitals and banks to airports and schools are equipped with sign language interpreters.
“A Nigeria without communication barriers is possible,” she said. “If every school takes one step toward inclusion, we can build a nation where every child is heard and understood.”
Also speaking at the event, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to inclusive learning. She emphasised that removing educational barriers and expanding access for all learners remain key priorities of the current administration.
“Inclusive education is not a privilege, it is a right,” Ahmad stated. “Every Nigerian child, especially every girl, deserves a chance to learn, lead, and thrive, regardless of her background or disability.”
She encouraged educators, policymakers, and parents to embrace equity-driven practices that give every learner a fair opportunity to succeed.
In recent years, the campaign for sign language education in Nigeria has gained momentum, thanks to advocacy from disability rights groups and educators. While the country currently lacks a standardised national sign language, American Sign Language (ASL) remains the most widely used form of communication in schools and among interpreters.
The introduction of sign language into the basic education curriculum represents a historic shift towards inclusive communication and signals the government’s resolve to create a learning environment where no child is left behind.
