The Speaker of the House of Representatives, is to employ a sign language interpreter in its chamber during plenary and other legislative proceedings.
The chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Disability, Dr Bashiru Dawodu, said yesterday in Abuja that the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas gave approval for the employment of the interpreter.
Dawodu revealed this at a press conference organsed by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and coalition of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in Nigeria under the aegis of Accelerate Disability Inclusion in Emergencies (ADIE) Forum.
He said, “We have had some discussions with the Speaker and he has obliged us that for the first time, we will have sign language interpreters during plenary so that PWDs in that category can understand deliberations in the House. I will vigorously pursue your recommendations because I agree with what you have said.”
He also promised to assist Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the country, adding that he would use his office to promote their cause.
He, however, challenged them not to relent in demanding their rights which are not given on a platter.
The Senior Resident Director of the NDI, Kelley Jones, said she was aware of how much ADIE Forum members appreciate the support of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability.
