Nigeria: Islamic Group Praises Jigawa Governor’s Support for Hijab Among Female Security Workers

IQNA – A Nigerian Islamic human rights organization has welcomed a recent decision by the governor of Jigawa State to permit female Muslim personnel in private security companies to wear the hijab as part of their uniforms.

In a statement released on April 17, 2025, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) expressed support for Governor Umar Namadi’s directive to three private security companies operating in the state, urging them to allow hijab use among their female Muslim employees.

The Executive Director of MURIC, Ishaq Akintola, praised the governor for what he described as a gesture reflecting religious awareness and respect for modesty in professional settings, according to the organization’s website.

He also noted that the directive applies to a workforce comprising nearly 10,000 security personnel across the three firms, citing local reports.

In the official statement, MURIC stated: “Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has directed the three private security outfits in the state to permit their female Muslim staff to use hijab on top of their uniforms. Reports say the three private security firms in the state employ a total of 9,969 security personnel.”

The organization added that the move demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and dignity for women in the workplace.

Akintola also called on Muslim officials across the country to openly practice their faith while upholding the rights of others. He emphasized that Islamic teachings advocate fairness and justice toward people of all religious backgrounds.

Nigeria is a multi-religious nation with an estimated population of over 200 million people. Muslims make up approximately 50% of the population, predominantly residing in the northern regions, including Jigawa State. Issues around religious expression, including the wearing of hijab, have been subjects of legal and public debate in various states.

The use of hijab in public institutions and private workplaces has at times sparked controversy, particularly in parts of southern Nigeria where secular policies are more strictly enforced.

Human rights organizations have periodically raised concerns over restrictions on religious attire, arguing that such limitations conflict with constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.

Several legal cases over the years have challenged bans or limitations on the hijab, with courts delivering mixed rulings. In 2022, Nigeria’s Supreme Court ruled in favor of allowing female students to wear hijab in Lagos public schools, reinforcing the argument for religious liberty in dress. However, the application of such rulings continues to vary by region.

Source: Agencies