A coalition of Muslim women across Nigeria has renewed its call on government authorities, educational institutions, employers, and public agencies to put an end to discrimination against women who wear the hijab.
The groups, speaking through joint statements and advocacy engagements, expressed concern that despite repeated court rulings and constitutional provisions, Muslim women continue to face restrictions, harassment, and exclusion because of their religious dressing.
According to the coalition, incidents of hijab discrimination have been reported in public and private schools, corporate workplaces, hospitals, and government institutions, where Muslim women are allegedly denied admission, employment, promotions, or access to services because of their choice to wear the hijab.
Constitutional and Legal Concerns
The women emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to manifest religious beliefs in worship, practice, and observance.
They argued that preventing Muslim women from wearing the hijab violates these constitutional rights and undermines the principles of equality and non-discrimination enshrined in Nigerian law.
The coalition also referenced past court judgments that have affirmed the right of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in public schools, urging authorities to respect and enforce these legal decisions nationwide.
Impact on Education and Employment
According to the group, hijab discrimination has negatively affected the education and career progression of many Muslim women, forcing some students to abandon schooling or compelling professionals to choose between their faith and their livelihoods.
They warned that such practices not only marginalize women but also deprive society of talent, productivity, and diversity.
The coalition called on school administrators, employers, and regulatory bodies to adopt inclusive policies that respect religious diversity while maintaining institutional standards.
Call to Government and Institutions
The Muslim women urged federal and state governments to issue clear directives prohibiting hijab discrimination and to ensure that public institutions comply with constitutional provisions and court rulings.
They also called for public awareness campaigns to promote tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
According to the coalition, protecting the rights of Muslim women to wear the hijab is not only a religious issue but also a broader human rights and gender equality concern.
Advocacy Continues
The groups pledged to continue engaging policymakers, civil society organizations, and human rights bodies until hijab discrimination is fully addressed.
They stressed that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and that respecting religious freedom is essential to national unity, social harmony, and democratic values.