5 things to know about Nehemiah Danjuma, Nigeria’s deaf lawyer called to bar

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Nehemiah Danjuma has etched his name in Nigeria’s legal history after being called to the Bar, becoming the first deaf lawyer from Northern Nigeria.

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His remarkable journey has inspired many, highlighting resilience, determination and a commitment to disability inclusion.

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Here are five things to know about the new legal practitioner:

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1. He is the first deaf lawyer from Northern Nigeria

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Danjuma made history after successfully completing his legal training and being called to the Nigerian Bar during the 2026 Call to Bar ceremonies.

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Announcing the milestone on X, he wrote: “First Deaf Lawyer from Northern Nigeria. Called to the Bar. History made.”

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His achievement has been widely celebrated by colleagues, friends and disability rights advocates, who praised his determination in overcoming barriers to achieve his dream.

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2. His path to studying Law was not easy

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Becoming a lawyer was far from straightforward for Danjuma.

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In 2017, he sought admission to study Law at the University of Ilorin but was instead offered Primary Education Studies. Rather than accept the course, he declined the admission and tried again the following year.

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His persistence paid off when he secured admission to study Common Law in 2018. He graduated with a Second Class Upper degree before proceeding to the Abuja Campus of the Nigerian Law School for his Bar Part II programme.

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3. He has championed disability rights for years

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Beyond his legal qualification, Danjuma has built a strong reputation as a disability rights advocate.

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His professional interests include disability law and policy, human rights, international law and diplomacy, employment and labour law, as well as the role of assistive technology in improving the lives of persons with disabilities.

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He currently serves as Programmes Lead at the Voice of Disability Initiative, where he coordinates advocacy campaigns, outreach programmes and disability inclusion projects.

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4. He has an impressive record of leadership

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Danjuma has held several leadership positions throughout his academic and professional journey.

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At the University of Ilorin, he represented students with disabilities as a Students’ Union Senator. He also served two terms as National President of the National Association of Nigerian Deaf Students (NANDS).

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During his tenure, he organised the association’s first national conference in 2023, launched the NANDS Magazine and received a Long-term Service Award for his contributions.

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5. His advocacy has earned international recognition

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Danjuma’s work has extended beyond Nigeria.

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Between 2021 and 2024, he served as a Youth Adviser on Human Development for the European Union Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria, contributing to discussions on education, healthcare and social protection policies affecting young people.

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