By Oliver Nweke
The deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind in Nigeria will soon have a unified Nigerian Sign Language as stakeholders meet in Kano to discuss and propose modalities towards developing the language.
Sign language is the language of the deaf. It is a complete, natural language that has the same linguistic properties as spoken languages, with grammar that differs from English and other languages. Sign language is expressed by movements of the hands and face. It is the primary language of many Nigerians who are deaf and hard of hearing, and is used by many hearing people as well.
The use of sign language by the deaf, sign language interpreters, family of deaf person, co-workers, etc. helps promotes better awareness of and sensitivity to the deaf and hard of hearing community. As you sign with deaf, you will develop a strong appreciation for deaf culture, and you can promote understanding and acceptance of the language among others.
Nigeria is yet to develop her national sign language. In view of this, the National Commission for Persons with disabilities (NCPWD) in collaboration with Nigerian National Association of the Deaf (NNAD), Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Nigeria (ASLIN), Deaf stakeholders and other partners (CBM International, CBM Global, Sight Savers and Alliance for Sustainable Development Initiative) will be having an inaugural meeting in Kano from Monday, 27th September, 2021 for the development of Nigerian Sign Language for the Deaf Community.
More on the meeting coming soon.