Mirian Gom 
Minister of State for Education Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad speaking at the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child event in Abuja.
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has urged all teacher training institutions across Nigeria to integrate sign language education into their curricula as part of efforts to promote inclusive learning and bridge communication gaps for learners with hearing impairments.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, made the call on Thursday in Abuja during the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child celebration, themed “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”
“Sign language is a bridge, not a barrier,” Prof. Ahmad declared. “This theme is not just a slogan — it is a pledge to remove barriers and ensure every girl has a voice and a path to success.”
She said the Federal Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), remains committed to creating accessible and inclusive learning environments that empower all children, particularly girls with disabilities.
UBEC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, described sign language instruction as a national priority and part of the government’s drive to institutionalise disability-inclusive education across the country.
“No girl should suffer in silence,” Garba said. “We are institutionalising sign language teaching in all basic education schools so every child can learn and be heard.”
She added that UBEC is working with key stakeholders to enhance school infrastructure, teacher training, and child protection systems, ensuring that “no Nigerian girl is left behind.”
Both officials urged parents, teachers, and communities to support inclusive education and empower girls to “lead change, one sign at a time.”
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