By Olayinka Latona

The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has reaffirmed its commitment to making God’s word accessible to all by hosting the 5th edition of its National Bible Competition for the Deaf.

The event, conducted entirely in Nigerian Sign Language, took place at the Christian Mission for the Deaf Church in Somolu. Six schools participated: State Senior Grammar School (Special), Surulere; Wesley School 1 & 2 for the Hearing Impaired, Surulere; Hope Fountain School, Ijaiye; State Junior Grammar School for the Hearing Impaired, Surulere; and Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, Ikorodu.

Speaking on behalf of BSN General Secretary, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, the Deputy Manager of Research, Literacy, and Programs, Mr. Temitope Omogbemi, explained the society’s mission. He highlighted the substantial investment of time, money, and resources required to translate the Bible for the deaf community.

“BSN believes that hearing impairment should not be a barrier to accessing and interacting with God’s Word,” Omogbemi said. “That’s why we designed the Deaf Bible Quiz—to help the deaf community in Nigeria engage with the Bible in their heart language.”

He noted the competition’s growing impact. “The Bible quiz has increased engagement with the Bible among the schools. Students look forward to it, and they must first compete internally before advancing to the inter-school event. We’ve seen a significant rise in Bible engagement among the deaf.”

Omogbemi also revealed that BSN is the only Bible Society in Africa with a building dedicated solely to translating the Sign Language Bible, and only the second in the world.

The Acting President of the Christian Mission for the Deaf Church, Evangelist Lucky Nepe, praised the initiative. “We are happy to see our children discussing the Bible. That exposure will influence them and help shape their future, whether they become pastors or pursue other professions.”

After an impressive display of scriptural knowledge, Hope Fountain School, Ijaiye, emerged champion with 35 points, represented by Rachael Afuwape and Ibrahim Idris. Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, Ikorodu, came second with 30 points, while Wesley School 1 for the Hearing Impaired, Surulere, placed third with 25 points.