Hon. Tella stated this on Saturday while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the 10th Anniversary celebration of the Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Nigeria (ASLIN) held at Iwe-Irohin house, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta.
He described the event as more than a celebration of years, but a tribute to vision, resilience, and a decade of selfless service to humanity.
“Today is not just an anniversary; it is a celebration of vision, of resilience, and of a decade of dedicated service to humanity. It is a celebration of the men and women who have chosen a noble calling — a calling that gives voice to the voiceless, access to the excluded, and dignity to those who, for too long, were left on the margins of public discourse” he said.
The lawmaker commended ASLIN for its consistency, professionalism, and unity over the past ten years, noting that the association’s contribution to national development and democratic participation was immeasurable.
Recalling his legislative intervention, Hon. Tella explained that his decision to sponsor and support a motion mandating the recognition and inclusion of sign language interpreters in all Ogun State–organised programmes was informed by the challenges faced by people with hearing impairment in accessing government information and public services.
“That motion was not just a legislative achievement; it was a moral victory. It was a statement that in Ogun State, every citizen matters. It was a commitment from the House of Assembly that our policies and programmes must reflect justice, fairness, and inclusivity”.
He acknowledged ASLIN’s advocacy and professionalism as key factors that helped bring the issue to the fore, describing members of the association as partners who made the success of the motion possible.
Hon. Tella assured the association of the continued support of the Ogun State House of Assembly, stressing the need to go beyond policies to ensure the full integration of sign language services in schools, hospitals, courts, emergency services, and community engagements across the state.
“Beyond motions and policies, we owe it to our people to continue pushing for full integration of sign language services in schools, hospitals, courts, emergency services, and community engagements. And I assure you that I will continue to be your voice in the legislative chamber.
“You are bridges—bridges connecting people to information, to opportunities, to participation, and ultimately to equality. You are advocates for justice, ambassadors of inclusion, and champions of human rights.
He congratulated ASLIN on its 10-year milestone and expressed optimism that the coming decade would bring stronger partnerships, wider recognition, and greater achievements in the pursuit of a more inclusive Nigeria.
