The federal government of Nigeria has given television stations in the country a directive to use sign language interpreters during major news broadcasting.

The directive was revealed by the minister of information and culture, Lai Mohammed, at a virtual meeting with the officials of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD).

The directive is in line with the national broadcasting code, which will be of benefit to all those living with disabilities and will be officially communicated to all public and private TV stations, according to the minister.

Mohammed said: “I have also directed, within my ministry most importantly, the issue of television stations having sign language interpreters and, by tomorrow, I can assure you that a directive will go out to television stations pointing their attention to the relevant provisions of the broadcasting code. I am sure that in a few weeks’ time, you will begin to see the difference.”

In addition, the ministry will work with the CCD to implement Section 2 of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act to promote awareness about the rights, respect and dignity of persons with disabilities, financial resource company Nairametrics reported on its website.

David Anyaele, executive director of the CCD, advised government ministries, departments and agencies to comply with the act, urging them to reserve at least 5% of employment opportunities for people living with disabilities.

tagged in: Centre for Citizens with Disabilities, David Anyaele, Lai Mohammed