… Calls For Full Implement of Supreme Court Ruling On Hijab Rights
The 2025 theme, Hijabis Unsilenced, symbolizes the determination of Muslim women in Nigeria to assert their rights and break free from discrimination and stereotypes. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, aimed at fostering a society that values diversity and upholds the dignity of all women. “We remain committed to creating a future where Muslim women can live, work, and thrive without fear or prejudice.”
These are the words of Coalition of Muslim Women Groups in Nigeria.
The coalition comprises diverse Muslim women organizations dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity, and empowerment of Muslim women across Nigeria. Through education, advocacy, and interfaith engagement, they strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
They called on policymakers, educators, security agencies, and service providers to:
1. Respect Legal Judgments and fully implement the Supreme Court ruling on hijab rights and penalize institutions that flout this decision.
2. Publicize documents and memos sent to agencies on this issue. We have realised that when these infractions occurs members of the public are usually not aware that their rights have already been protected and as such they cannot defend them selves.
3. Promote Law Enforcement Reform: Train officers on religious tolerance and ensure that hijabs are not forcefully removed during arrests or detentions.
4. Ensure Inclusivity in the Military as well as military schools : Encourage the Nigerian Navy to permit hijabs as part of the official uniform, aligning with global best practices.
5. Adopt Inclusive Service Policies: Guarantee equal access to public and private services for women in hijabs and niqab without harassment or exclusion.
6. Respect of Privacy in Biometric Procedures: the concerned agencies should Implement procedures for private biometric data capture by female officials.
A Call for Solidarity and Support
As we commemorate the 2025 World Hijab Day, the coalition invites all Nigerians to stand in solidarity with Muslim women. We urge individuals, organizations, and institutions to participate in events, amplify the message of inclusivity, and advocate for the protection of religious freedoms. Let us truly come together “to build a Nation where No man is oppressed!
Our freedom is not complete without the freedom of Palestinians. Muslim women and children in Palestine for many year have face genocide, destruction and loss of lives. While the ceasefire is a welcomed development, we hope the international community will work out a more permanent solution to guarantee the rights and freedoms for all.
Above are the demands from the Nigerian Muslim Women Groups as the world marks World Hijab Day.