The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive and barrier-free education system where every Nigerian child, especially girls with disabilities, can learn, lead, and thrive.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, gave the assurance at the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child celebration in Abuja, with the theme “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”
Ahmad said the theme was not just a slogan but “a pledge that we will 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.”
She described the event as a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive education and the rights of persons with disabilities, noting that talent “does not wait for perfect conditions; it grows where opportunity, support, and belief come together.”
A visually-impaired girl was honoured as “Minister for the Day” and Ahmad hailed the gesture as a bold statement of equality and possibility.
“Her presence is not merely ceremonial; it is a declaration that ability is not defined by sight alone,” the minister said.
“Leadership can, and should, be exercised by those who know what it means to persevere, to adapt, and to dream beyond constraints,” the minister said.
She pledged that UBEC would expand inclusive education programmes and ensure sign language interpretation and adaptive learning environments in schools nationwide.
“Sign language is a bridge, not a barrier. It connects minds, shapes friendships, and unlocks futures. When a student can express themselves and be understood, classrooms become laboratories of confidence, collaboration, and creativity,” she said.
The minister called for the training of more sign language interpreters, the integration of sign language into teacher training curricula, and alignment of education policies to ensure a smooth pathway for girls from primary to higher education.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajia Aisha Garba, said the Commission is committed to ensuring that “no child is left behind.”
“Education is the great equalizer, and inclusion is its backbone. Inclusive communication is not a courtesy, it is a right. Every girl, including the hearing-impaired, must be seen, heard, and empowered to lead change,” she said.
Garba announced that a policy is already in place to institutionalize the teaching and learning of sign language across basic education schools in Nigeria.
“Imagine a country where hospitals, banks, supermarkets, airports, and schools all have sign language interpreters. That’s the Nigeria we are working toward, one school, one change at a time,” she said.
She disclosed that UBEC’s restructuring policy now mandates schools to include ramps and accessibility structures for learners with physical disabilities, while new partnerships with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, will provide regular hearing checks and early intervention for hearing-impaired pupils.
“No girl should suffer in silence. Bullying has been outlawed. Our schools must be safe spaces where every child can learn, grow, and dream freely,” she said.
She also urged parents, teachers, and caregivers to show empathy and patience, adding:
“Girls with disabilities are not charity cases—they are leaders in the making. Start a Sign Language Club in your school. Lead the change, one sign at a time.”
On his part, the Chairman of the UBEC Governing Board and former Governor of Nasarawa State, Sen. Tanko Al-Makura, praised the Ministry and UBEC for championing the cause of inclusive education.
“This event has given hope and encouragement to people with disabilities, especially girls. The theme is symbolic, it ensures justice, equity, and inclusion. Communication is key in every child’s welfare, and sign language must be part of our national learning culture,” he said.
Al-Makura urged parents and teachers to support children with disabilities and announced a N1 million donation to assist parents of three blind pupils at the event.
“Government has given us a framework through the Disability Law and the Disability Commission. What remains is for us as a society to stand up, advocate, and give practical support to ensure that every child lives a dignified, worthwhile life,” he added.
