The award was presented during ASLIN’s national meeting held in Abuja last week, an event that brought together sign language interpreters, disability-inclusion activists, and stakeholders from across the country.
According to ASLIN, the honour was conferred on only three states nationwide for the year, with Ogun State earning this recognition due to the impactful legislative contributions of Hon. Tella.
The association explained that Hon. Tella was specially selected “for representing the association well” and for consistently championing the concerns of sign language interpreters and the hearing-impaired community in Ogun State.
They highlighted his proactive legislative engagements, noting that his interventions have significantly enhanced advocacy for inclusivity, particularly in ensuring communication accessibility during government programmes and public events.
Hon. Tella’s recent motion at the Ogun State House of Assembly—calling for the mandatory inclusion of sign language interpreters in all state government programmes—was described by ASLIN as a landmark step. They said the motion marked a major stride in guaranteeing that citizens with hearing impairment are not excluded from vital public information and civic participation.
The association further expressed appreciation for Hon. Tella’s sustained passion, dedication, and visibility in disability-inclusive governance, stressing that his support has elevated the profile of sign language professionals and underscored their essential role in society.
In his acceptance remarks, Hon. Tella thanked the association for the honour, describing it as a powerful encouragement to intensify his advocacy for a more inclusive Ogun State.
He reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing policies that strengthen disability rights and ensure that sign language interpreters are fully integrated into government communication systems, educational institutions, health services, and emergency response operations.
