This is about ensuring that every voice is heard—whether spoken or signed. We are equipping our officers with tools that will allow them to engage more effectively with diverse communities, thereby reinforcing trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
In a groundbreaking initiative to promote inclusivity and enhance operational efficiency, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has successfully concluded a five-day intensive training program on basic sign language proficiency for its personnel.
Dr. Olusola Odumosu, the FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, described the programme as a pioneering and transformative effort aimed at bridging the communication divide between security operatives and individuals with hearing impairments. Speaking at the closing ceremony held on Monday in Abuja, Dr. Odumosu emphasized that the training represents a bold step toward modern, inclusive, and community-oriented policing.
“This initiative is more than just a training exercise,” he stated. “It is a strategic investment in the future of intelligence gathering, criminal investigations, and the effective discharge of our core responsibilities. By empowering our officers to communicate with the deaf and hard-of-hearing, we are not only promoting inclusivity but also enhancing our capacity to serve all Nigerians better.”
Facilitated in partnership with the Data Lead Africa Foundation, the programme marks a significant milestone in the Corps’ commitment to breaking longstanding communication barriers.
Dr. Odumosu highlighted the dual benefit of the training—fostering inclusivity while also improving the ability to convey information discreetly, which is vital for intelligence and operational security.
“This is about ensuring that every voice is heard—whether spoken or signed,” he added. “We are equipping our officers with tools that will allow them to engage more effectively with diverse communities, thereby reinforcing trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.”
The Commandant praised the dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by participating officers, describing them as “ambassadors of inclusivity and champions of a more compassionate, responsive NSCDC.” He further announced plans to integrate members of the Deaf in Tech community into specific units within the FCT Command. This collaboration will provide continuous support and foster practical application of sign language skills among officers.
Dr. Odumosu also extended his appreciation to the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for fostering a progressive environment that encourages innovation, inclusivity, and operational excellence.
“This is the narrative of a Command that is committed to listening, learning, and evolving,” he concluded. “At the FCT Command, we are not simply preparing for the future—we are actively shaping it.”
The NSCDC’s adoption of sign language training reflects a broader understanding of the importance of building inclusive security structures that serve every segment of society.
This initiative is expected to strengthen public confidence, improve access to justice for the hearing-impaired, and enhance the Corps’ intelligence-gathering capabilities within traditionally underserved communities.