The Centre for Disability and Inclusion Africa (CDIA) has renewed calls for equal access and inclusion for persons with hearing disabilities in Nigeria.

The call was made during a virtual forum with the theme: ‘Deaf Community Inclusion: Stakeholders’ Perspective’, where CDIA’s Executive Director, Yinka Olaito, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to build a society “where everyone belongs,” urging participants to uphold the dignity of all persons regardless of ability.

He noted that inclusion must move beyond sympathy, describing it as a matter of justice.

“We are all human. No one should be discriminated against. Fundamental human rights have no double face,” he said.

The forum, which gathered educators, policymakers, and civil society leaders, explored strategies to create a barrier-free Nigeria where persons with hearing disabilities are empowered and heard.

Sessions explored technology, sign language, and accessibility, offering practical steps for schools, workplaces, and communities.

In his keynote, Executive Director of Deaf-in-Tech, Dr Arowolo Ayoola, used an African proverb to underscore the digital divide. “When the drum beats only for the chief, the village forgets how to dance,” he said, likening the exclusion of persons with disabilities from digital innovation to being left outside a shared rhythm.

He cautioned that systems ignoring diversity are not neutral but oppressive, stressing the need for inclusive policies and accessible technology design.

Speaking through an interpreter, a deaf digital professional and inclusion advocate, Femi Adeosun, challenged stereotypes about incapacity.

He said members of the deaf community are resilient yet face barriers ranging from classrooms without interpreters to job interviews without accommodation.

Commending CDIA’s advocacy, Adeosun called for sustained effort to ensure inclusion moves from dialogue to action.

Also speaking, Founder of Speaking Fingers Network, Treasures Uchegbu, highlighted progress achieved through grassroots empowerment. She cited her organisation’s annual Deaf National Boot Camp, which has transformed the lives of deaf youths and Children of Deaf Adults (CODA). “We are building bridges, empowering the deaf, and amplifying their voices,” she said.