The Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) has appealed to the federal government to adopt sign language as the second official language in the country.

Dr. Chidi Oluchi, the national president of the association, who spoke through an interpreter, Dagbo Usman-Doma, made the plea at a press conference as part of activities to mark the golden jubilee of the association on Thursday in Lafia, Nasarawa State.

According to him, the call became imperative as a result of the difficulties and challenges persons living with disabilities are going through to communicate with others.

Oluchi added that the recognition of sign language as the second lingua-Franca would immensely benefit persons with disabilities as well as other populations by ensuring smooth communication devoid of any barrier.

“We appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari, leaders and members of National Assembly, ministers as well as other stakeholders, to assist us and ensure that sign language is recognized as a second official language.

“Doing so will give us a sense of belonging and will ensure proper inclusion of more than nine million of our members across the country in governance,” he added.

The president of the group also said that the adoption of sign language as the second official language in the country would improve the image of the country before the international community.

He explained that it was also in line with the United Nations Convention and goals four and 10 of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure quality education and reduce inequality.

He added that as part of efforts to achieve their objectives, the group formed a coalition with the Association of Sign Language Interpreters in Nigeria (ASLIN) and others in 2022 to create awareness of the importance of sign language.

Oluchi also commended various media organizations, especially television stations using sign language to interpret their news items or programs to their viewers.

He, therefore, appealed to the media to continue to support them through their platforms to reach those in authority and influence them to consider their request.

The national president also said that they were in Nasarawa State for an Annual General Meeting to mark the golden jubilee of their association and discuss issues concerning them.

The meeting had in attendance members of the association from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.