Lagos: For millions of Nigerians living with hearing impairment, visiting a hospital can be a daunting experience, often marked by confusion, frustration, and misdiagnosis.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, experts and advocates argue that these challenges can be surmounted by the presence of professional Sign Language Interpreters (SLIs) in healthcare facilities.
Across Nigeria, the absence of SLIs leaves deaf patients struggling to communicate symptoms, understand medical advice, or navigate complex treatment procedures. Surveys and investigative reports reveal that only a small fraction of hospitals provide any form of sign-language support, with studies indicating that fewer than 7 percent of patients have access to interpreters. In many primary and secondary health centres across states like Lagos and Abuja, interpreters are completely absent, forcing deaf patients to rely on family members or written notes to communicate with healthcare providers.
The situation in other African countries mirrors Nigeria’s challenges. In Kenya, a few hospitals in Kisumu County employ SLIs, but nationwide coverage remains inadequate. In South Africa’s Gauteng province, while some interpreters are available, many deaf patients still struggle to access them, especially for routine appointments or urgent care. Overall, even where SLIs exist, their distribution is uneven, and the numbers are insufficient to meet demand.
According to the Nigerian National Association of the Deaf (NNAD), about 9.5 million Nigerians live with hearing impairment, while globally, over 70 million people rely on more than 300 distinct sign languages. Yet, only a fraction of these languages is legally recognised, leaving many without access to professional interpretation services. As a result, advocates say that the employment of trained SLIs in hospitals is not just a convenience but a lifesaving necessity.
‘Most of the time there are misunderstandings and frustration on both sides,’ said Mr Hassan Ridwan, Chairman of NNAD, Kwara Chapter. ‘Healthcare workers cannot fully understand our needs, and our communities have lost people due to misdiagnosis. Others develop phobia about visiting hospitals because there is no interpreter to help us.’ Ridwan further alleged that the state government has overlooked the deaf community, citing a lack of provision for sign language interpreters.
Similarly, Mr Ameen Ibrahim, Chairman of the Association of Sign Language Interpreters in Nigeria (ASLIN), emphasised the vital role of interpreters. ‘Sign language interpreters are the lifeline of the deaf community, especially in the health sector. Without them, doctors may misdiagnose, and deaf patients struggle to explain their symptoms. Many have to rely on family members or private interpreters, who may not have professional training,’ he explained.
Prof. Joy Shu’aibu, Country Director of Sightsavers Nigeria, highlighted the wider social consequences. ‘People with disabilities are more likely to live in poverty and have limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Sign language interpreters are essential for inclusion and ensuring that deaf persons can exercise their rights fully,’ she said.
The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 guarantees access to healthcare and education without discrimination and mandates public institutions to provide accessible communication methods, including braille and sign language. However, implementation remains inconsistent, especially in healthcare facilities.
Dr Monsuru Awodun, President of the Association of Resident Doctors, warned that ignoring these needs can have serious mental health consequences. ‘Neglecting the deaf community can lead to depression, anxiety, or other mental health complications. Being unable to communicate effectively leaves them feeling stigmatised and isolated,’ he said. He emphasised that healthcare delivery must include deaf patients, either through special clinics or by integrating interpreters into hospitals, to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Globally, an estimated one billion people, or 15 percent of the population, live with some form of disability, with 80 percent residing in low- and middle-income countries. Yet, sign language recognition and interpreter services remain inadequate in most regions, reflecting the challenges faced in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Experts are urging the government and healthcare institutions to employ professional SLIs, provide regular training for medical staff, and integrate disability-inclusive practices into health planning. They added that ensuring SLIs in hospitals could greatly improve health outcomes and promote equity for deaf communities.