Abuja, Nigeria — 2025
In a landmark moment for disability inclusion, women’s rights, and accessible communication, the city of Abuja played host to the First Female Sign Language Interpreters Conference in Nigeria — a powerful convergence of female interpreters, deaf women leaders, disability advocates, government representatives, and development partners determined to amplify the voices of deaf women across Nigeria and other developing countries.
The historic event, themed “The Role of Female Sign Language Interpreters in Mitigating the Causes of Gender-Based Violence Among Deaf Women in Developing Countries,” was more than a professional conference — it was a bold declaration of solidarity and a blueprint for social transformation.
“We Are Interpreters of Rights, Justice, and Humanity” — Dr. Martina Ntino
Delivering a rousing welcome address, Dr. Martina Ongbonya Ntino, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, set the tone for the gathering. With a resounding call to action, she acknowledged the struggles of deaf women who often bear the double burden of gender-based violence and communication exclusion.
“As female sign language interpreters, we do more than convey messages — we carry emotions, bridge worlds, and defend dignity,” she said. “We are not only interpreters of language; we are interpreters of justice. In a world where gender-based violence remains a painful reality, our role becomes even more critical.”
She described the conference as a “turning point,” where passion meets purpose, and interpreters are inspired to move from service providers to powerful advocates and changemakers.
FCTA Backs the Movement for Inclusion
In a goodwill message, Amb. Beatrice Mube, who represented the Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, praised the initiative and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to inclusive policies and gender justice.
“Your conference highlights the importance of inclusive communication and support systems for deaf women who often face unique challenges,” Mube said. “We recognize the tireless efforts of female sign language interpreters in promoting inclusivity and supporting vulnerable populations.”
She laid out three key focus areas:
- Empowering Deaf Women to speak up and seek justice through accessible platforms;
- Breaking Communication Barriers by placing interpreters where they are most needed;
- Promoting Inclusive Policies that reflect the real needs of deaf women.
Her powerful message concluded with a call for collective effort:
“Let’s continue to work towards a future where deaf women and girls live without fear of violence and have equal opportunities to thrive.”
NCPWD Pledges Commitment to Justice and Communication Access
Also present was Lawrence Idemudia, who represented the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Gufwan. Idemudia spotlighted NCPWD’s strategic partnerships and achievements in addressing gender-based violence and promoting accessible communication.
“NCPWD has remained committed to mitigating gender-based violence against persons with disabilities, especially women and girls,” he said. “We are actively collaborating with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to ensure that no case is overlooked.”
He also unveiled the commission’s efforts to mainstream sign language across government institutions:
- Partnership with Taf Africa and the House Committee on Disabilities to provide sign language interpretation during National Assembly plenary sessions;
- Development of a Nigerian Sign Language Dictionary;
- Advocacy for official recognition of Nigerian Sign Language as one of the country’s national languages.
A National Movement for Inclusive Justice
The conference didn’t just gather professionals — it galvanized a movement. With deaf women leaders sharing lived experiences and interpreters exchanging best practices, the event laid the groundwork for a national agenda focused on accessible justice, empowerment, and advocacy.
Participants came away with renewed energy to challenge societal stigma, improve service delivery, and create a Nigeria where no woman — deaf or hearing — is left behind.
As interpreters raised their hands — the very tools of their profession — they raised a symbolic banner for equity, empathy, and change.
The Road Ahead
From Abuja, a message echoed across the nation: female sign language interpreters are not just facilitators of conversation — they are protectors of rights, defenders of dignity, and partners in justice.
The First Female Sign Language Interpreters Conference will be remembered not just for its historic firsts, but for sparking a much-needed movement. A movement that says: “Silence will no longer be a sentence. Communication is power. And every woman deserves to be heard.”
