The Association of Deaf Muslims in Nigeria (ADMUN) celebrated its 30th anniversary in Abuja yesterday, marking decades of progress and empowerment for Deaf Muslims across the country.
The event featured a keynote speech by the association’s president, Alhaji Suleiman Saka Dagbo, also the African representative on the board of the Global Deaf Muslims Federation (GDMF), USA.
In his address, Alhaji Dagbo expressed deep gratitude to Allah for the organisation’s growth, which started in 1984 as a small group at the Kwara State School for Special Needs, Ilorin.
The association, originally called the “Association of Deaf Muslim Youths (ADMY),” has since evolved into ADMUN. Its mission is to ensure religious freedom, promote education, and foster economic and social development for Deaf Muslims throughout Nigeria.
Dagbo highlighted the association’s numerous achievements, including teaching Deaf Muslims to read the Qur’an using fingerspelling, promoting higher education, and producing leaders within the Deaf Muslim community.
He noted that ADMUN has expanded significantly, with branches in 25 states and outreach efforts extending to several African countries.
Despite these accomplishments, Dagbo acknowledged the organisation’s ongoing challenges, such as inadequate funding, unemployment within the Deaf Muslim community, and limited inclusion in joint Islamic organizational activities.
He emphasised the need for greater support from Islamic organisations and individuals, particularly in employment, scholarships, and establishing an Islamic Centre in Ibadan.
“This centre would provide education, vocational training, and leadership development for Deaf Muslims.”
Dagbo also called for assistance in securing a mobility vehicle to facilitate Da’wah activities and requested Islamic literature and resources in formats accessible to the Deaf community.
Dagbo expressed heartfelt appreciation to individuals and organisations that have supported ADMUN’s mission over the years, including the Islamic Education Trust, Islamic Welfare Foundation, Women in Dawah, and the Global Deaf Muslims Federation, among others.
He encouraged continued collaboration to further the association’s noble work.
On his part, Prof. Abubakar Ali-Agan, represented by Prof Yusuf Suleiman, encouraged members to be grateful for their faith, describing it as life’s greatest blessing.
He urged members to contribute in their ways, regardless of disabilities or limitations, noting that even good manners can help spread Islam.
Suleiman also encouraged authorities to support the association by enhancing access to education, employment, social inclusion, and by demonstrating political commitment to uphold statutory protections for people with disabilities.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria and international representatives attended the anniversary event, marking a significant milestone in ADMUN’s ongoing efforts to empower Deaf Muslims through education, religious freedom, and social inclusion.
