Over 50 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have undergone intensive training in sign language proficiency.
This is in a bid to foster inclusive security and effective communication with persons with disabilities.
The five-day training, which held in Abuja, is the first of its kind for security operatives in the country.
The training was targeted at improving investigation, interrogation, and intelligence gathering through sign language proficiency.
At the close of the workshop, FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, described it as a strategic investment in the Corps’ core mandates of public safety and national security.
He said equipping personnel with sign language skills eliminates a long-standing communication barrier between law enforcement and the deaf community.
“This initiative is not just a training programme but a forward-thinking approach to modern policing.
Dr Odumosu noted that the training aligns with a citizen-centered approach to law enforcement, which helps to build trust.
Training will improve access to justice
The Commandant said the training will also foster inclusivity, improve access to justice, and ensures that every voice spoken or signed is heard and respected.
He noted that the FCT Command has always wanted to dictate the pace for others in terms of innovation, inclusiveness, and professional development.
“From personnel reorientation and capacity building to recognizing excellence through our reward system, we are consistently raising the bar.
This sign language training is a bold, progressive, and impactful step toward realizing that vision,” he added.
The training facilitator and the Chief Executive of Data Lead Africa Foundation, Dr. Arowolo Ayoola, commended the NSCDC for the initiative.
He said such training helps in ensuring that people with disabilities, especially the deaf, are not denied justice due to communication barriers.
Dr. Ayoola recounted a tragic death of a deaf man following a misunderstanding with a security officer.
He said such an incident underscored the urgent need for inclusive communication in law enforcement.
Organizers gave certificate of participants to trained personnel with an award of recognition to the Commandant, Dr. Odumosu.
