Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Coalition of Nigerian Muslim women has restated its commitment to affirm the rights of Muslim women Hijab in various contexts.
The Coalition stated this during a World Press Briefing to commemorate the 2026 World Hijab Day in Abuja. This year’s World Hijab Day, which is celebrated under the theme “Unityhijab,” hopes to bring together women from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life.
According to the speech from the Coalition, this year’s celebration is about “embracing our differences, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. It is a global call for solidarity, inviting millions of people to come together on February 1st to celebrate, uplift, and honour the experience of hijabi women all over the world.
The statement also reads: “Unity does not necessarily mean uniformity, but empathy, understanding and reassurance that the right of Muslim women to wear the hijab is not compromised. To fight against any form of discrimination and harassment against the use of the hijab and support every woman who chooses to wear it.
The Coalition further stated that it uses the occasion of the 2026 World Hijab Day to amplify its voice with respect to the following; A review of NYSC uniforms to ensure adequate inclusion of Muslim Female Corps Members. The Coalition noted that the current uniform of the NYSC is highly inadequate for Muslim Female Corps members. According to the Coalition, there is a need for an overhaul of the NYSC dress code to properly include Female Corps Members and others. It also proposed that Muslim students be allowed to wear knee length Hijab and should be exempted from the compulsory requirement to wear shorts for parade and wear long, free white trousers instead.
It also advocated for legislation for equal rights and protection. For this, the Coalition request that the National Assembly must prioritize the swift passage of the outstanding bills to safeguard against discrimination based on appearance or faith. These the Coalition believes will demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to justice and equity.
Support for reverts embracing the Hijab. The Coalition advocated that families and society must actively support reverts who choose to wear the Hijab, recognising the challenges they often face from loved ones and communities. Acceptance, encouragement, and a prejudice-free environment are essential for their journey. The Coalition also demands that special attention should be given to those facing unique challenges by offering counselling and inclusive support to build their confidence.
On community-led initiatives for empowerment, the Coalition advocated for community-driven
programs that empower hijab-wearing women through mentorship, skill development, and leadership training. These initiatives, it further stated, should connect accomplished professionals with younger women for guidance, equip them with tools to excel in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and governance, and prepare them for advocacy roles. It also stresses that partnering with NGOs and government agencies can further reinforce this.
Similarly, the Coalition advocated recognising the hijab as a symbol of empowerment. It noted that the hijab should be viewed as a symbol of empowerment rather than restriction. It stated: ” We urge individuals, institutions, and leaders to acknowledge the hijab as a reflection of identity, values, and inclusivity. It connects women across diverse backgrounds while fostering understanding and unity. Let us embrace the hijab not as a barrier but as a powerful tool for promoting opportunity, respect, and diversity.
In addition, the Coalition call on government agencies, schools, and private establishments to implement services that are inclusive of individuals whose appearance reflects their religious beliefs. Initiatives must accommodate hijab-wearing women and recognise the critical role of women in national development. Additionally, strict accountability measures should be enforced to address harassment and discrimination against hijab-wearing individuals by public and private institutions. We call on schools to respect the Constitution of the land and the pronouncements of the Apex court on the inalienable right of female Muslims to adorn the hijab. This is imperative, so we don’t have to go through additional litigation to enforce the already established rights. The Coalition also advocated for media responsibility and positive representation, stating that media outlets must challenge stereotypes by promoting positive representation of hijab-wearing women. Stories should highlight their achievements as leaders, professionals, and role models while breaking down misconceptions about the hijab.
It also stated: “Collaboration with organisations 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
The Coalition further lauded the Nigerian media for their continued support in attending this year event as well as other related activities.
Other activities planned for this year’s celebration of the 2026 World Hijab Day include: Public Lecture by 10.am on February 1st at women Centre. Hijab Awareness Outing by 4am at Millennium Park on February 8th.
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