Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Coalition of Nigerian Muslim Women has reiterated its commitment to addressing challenges faced by women, especially within the Muslim community, and strategically tackle relevant issues to enhance visibility and positive outcomes. This was contained in an address read by Rukayat Saadu Dindi Esq, Abuja Coordinator Hijab Rights Advocacy Initiative during a press briefing commemorating 2025 World Hijab Day in Abuja.
According to Dindi, “With a persistent dedication to promoting and actualizing its vision, the Coalition advocates for the rights and well-being of Muslim women and girls and other pertinent concerns of the larger society.” She further stated, “This day is a celebration of awareness, inviting women of all religions and backgrounds to experience wearing the hijab for a day and to gain a deeper appreciation for its meaning to Muslim women. Through this initiative, countless individuals have come to see the hijab not just as a piece of clothing but as a symbol of faith, strength, and identity. While much progress has been achieved, with increasing global recognition and support, the journey continues with renewed impetus. Efforts to enhance positive awareness of the hijab and to ensure that those who wear it can do so with dignity and freedom remain vital. World Hijab Day inspires hope, builds bridges of understanding, and works toward creating a world where every individual can proudly embrace their beliefs and choices without fear. The Coalition’s Ongoing Focus Celebrating Achievements and Saluting Stakeholders
“As we gather this year, we intend to reflect on the successes we have achieved, the milestones we have crossed, and r e c o g n i z e the unwavering support from stakeholders who have made it possible. Allah reminds us in the Qur’an: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you (in favor)” (Q14:7), while the Rasul (SAW) teaches us, “Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah”(Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4811). In this spirit of gratitude, we express heartfelt appreciation to all individuals, institutions, groups’ and agencies that have supported or responded positively to this mission. We commend all their actions and conscientious stand. Nothing will have been achieved without collaboration and support.
“The Federal government of Nigeria through its agencies surely deserve mention -Ministry of Education, National Youth Service Corps, Council of Legal Education, Supreme Court of Nigeria, various state governments, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, the National Assembly and many others. Various NGOs that amplify the crusade are well recognized by this Coalition. These efforts have been instrumental in advancing the rights and dignity of hijab-wearing women, ensuring their inclusion and respect in all spheres of life. This strengthens our bond and motivates further collaboration. We will equally highlight the inspiring success stories that demonstrate the resilience and strength of hijab-wearing women across the globe. Despite the obstacles, many have excelled in various fields, proving that the hijab is not a barrier but rather that it is a symbol of empowerment.
“From universities all over Nigeria, we have recorded numerous outstanding performances of hijabi students, breaking records of academic performance and setting high standards for upcoming graduates. We are extremely proud of them and will continue to support them as they inspire the next generation of hijab-wearing trailblazers.
Dindi also enumerated the gains of the advocacy . Her words: “Since we joined the global crusade, a lot of gains have been recorded both globally and locally, especially in changing the perception of the hijab. We thank Allah (SWT) for this. “The advocacy for hijab rights has made significant strides in Nigeria and globally, affirming the rights of Muslim women to wear hijabs in various contexts. “Some of the successes achieved include the following: Key Developments in Hijab Advocacy 1. Legal Recognition in Nigeria: In 2016, the Appeal Court in Lagos and the High Court in Osun State ruled that wearing a hijab is a fundamental right for Muslim women and girls. This legal affirmation has been crucial in promoting awareness and acceptance of hijabs within educational institutions and public life. 2. Support from the Nigerian Police Force: In 2020, the Nigerian Police Force officially allowed female officers to wear the hijab as part of their uniform, marking a significant breakthrough for Muslim women in law enforcement. This decision was influenced by both global and local advocacy efforts aimed at enhancing inclusion and respect for religious freedoms . 3. Global Acceptance: The movement has gained international momentum, with various countries modifying dress codes to accommodate hijabs. For instance, the U.S. Army and police forces in Canada, Scotland, Norway, and the UK have embraced policies allowing Muslim women to wear hijabs as part of their uniforms. 4. Empowerment in Education: In 2020, the Kwara State government officially permitted Muslim girls to wear hijabs to school despite initial resistance from some schools. This ruling was a significant victory for hijab-wearing students in public schools, empowering them to continue their education without compromising their faith. 5. Judicial Support: “The Supreme Court of Nigeria ruled in 2022 that Muslim girls have the constitutional right to wear hijabs in public schools, solidifying their freedom of religion and expression. This landmark ruling has been pivotal in reducing discrimination against hijab-wearing students. 6. Support from Religious Leaders: Many Muslim clerics across Nigeria have reinforced our messages of empowerment and religious freedom. 7. Institutional Changes: In 2018, Nigerian law schools began allowing female students to wear head coverings, culminating in Firdaus Amasa being called to the bar while wearing her hijab. Additionally, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) announced that female corps members could wear white shoulder-length hijabs for religious purposes. 8. Legislative Efforts: The Nigerian House of Representatives introduced a bill aimed at institutionalizing hijab use in schools, recognizing it as part of religious rights. Despite some opposition, this legislative push highlights a commitment to ensuring that Muslim women can exercise their rights without discrimination.
She further lauded the media for their support. She said: “Media outlets must challenge stereotypes by promoting positive representations of hijab-wearing women. Stories should highlight their achievements as leaders, professionals, and role models while breaking down misconceptions about the hijab. Collaborations with organizations such as this Coalition can amplify these narratives on mainstream platforms, emphasizing that the hijab enhances rather than limits potential. “This approach will foster inclusivity, break barriers, and promote diversity in public discourse. By addressing these key areas with clarity and focus, we can collectively advance the rights of hijab-wearing women while fostering an inclusive society that respects diversity and empowers all individuals. Appreciation The Coalition sincerely thanks the esteemed members of the media for their continued support in attending today’s event, as well as other related activities. Your commitment to providing fair and accurate coverage of the Annual World Hijab Day is greatly appreciated. We are truly grateful for your invaluable contributions and your role in amplifying the voices of those advocating for inclusivity and understanding. We urge you to keep addressing issues related to the hijab and other relevant topics with professionalism, impartiality, and a strong dedication to the well-being and interests of all citizens. Additionally, we express our sincere appreciation to all our stakeholders—individuals, organizations, and institutions—whose tireless efforts have helped make this event and our ongoing advocacy possible. The collaboration and support we receive towards promoting inclusivity, understanding, and empowerment for Muslim women are truly invaluable. Together, we continue to pave the way for a more just and equitable society. May our collective efforts be rewarded, and may we continue to work together for positive change. Activities Planned for the 2025 Edition of World Hijab Day We have lined up a series of activities for this year’s World Hijab Day from Friday, January 29th, 2025 and we invite you all to these activities which include the following: 1. 29th and 30th January 2025- Visit to Media Houses 2. 31st January – This Press briefing & Media interaction 3. 1st February 2025: a. 2025 Public lecture titled: “Breaking Stereotypes: Unveiling the Strengths and Contributions of Hijabi Women” By Prof Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Vice Chancellor Nasarawa State University”.
According to Dindi, other activities slated for this year’s commemoration include cancer screening & awareness b. Hijab Essay Competition Awards Venue: National Mosque Conference Hall. Time: 10:00am -1:30pm 4. 2nd February 2025- Hijab Outreach & Awareness Outing at Millennium Park from 1pm .
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