Nigerian deaf community was overjoyed as The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) dedicated 35 new Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) Bible stories on June 19, 2021, in Ibadan, Oyo State, bringing the total Bible stories to 145.
The Chairman of the event, Rev. John Okesipe, who is also Chairman, Oyo Area 1, expressed his love for the Nigerian deaf community, saying the new Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) Bible stories will have a positive impact on every deaf who has access to them.
He appreciated the BSN for its dedication to ensuring that the deaf community has the Bible in their heart language and worship God unhindered.
Pastor Joseph Makinwa, the guest speaker at the event, opined that the dedication of the Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) Bible stories was another bridge God has used the BSN to build. He encouraged individuals and corporate organisations to support the Bible cause.
“Today is the seed, tomorrow is the harvest. February 8, 1966, was the seed, today is the harvest. This is another legacy that is being left,” he declared.
“God has great love for the deaf community that was why He said one day the deaf will hear. The dedication of more Nigerian Sign Language Bible stories is the fulfilment of this prophecy,” said Elder Amos Akeju, Chairman, Deaf Mission in Nigeria.
He noted that though the deaf cannot hear God’s word, He has created another means for them to read His Word through the Nigerian Sign Language Bible.
Dr Shadrack Kakui, Director, International Consultant Services, DOOR International, who is the Translation Consultant for the NSL project, asserted that the BSN stands out in sign language translation globally. He also praised the Nigerian deaf community for supporting the NSL translation project.
Earlier, the President of the Society, Rev. Dr Timothy Banwo, assured that the BSN will remain committed to its mandate of making the word of God available to every Nigerian, regardless of their status, tribe, or location.
The immediate past General Secretary/ CEO, the BSN, Dr Dare Ajiboye, noted that the NSL project has been dear to his heart, and promised that he would continue to support it.