The Coalition of Nigerian Muslim Women has maintained its unwavering commitment to constructive engagement with various stakeholders and the Nigerian public to protect the fundamental rights of hijab-wearing women.
The coalition made the joint statement in Abuja at a press briefing to mark 2024 World Hijab Day with the theme “Veiled in Strength.”
World Hijab Day was founded by Nazma Khan, a Bangladeshi American, in 2013. It is commemorated globally on February 1 every year in 140 countries to encourage Muslim women who choose hijab-wearing as their symbol of faith and identity to educate and spread awareness.
A member of the coalition, Barrister Rukayat Dindi, said the hijab is an integral part of the Muslim woman, and her ability to actively participate in all public spheres while wearing the hijab is not just a choice but also a guaranteed right protected by Nigerian laws.
This declaration was made during a press briefing in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 World Hijab Day, themed “Veiled in Strength.” #Nigeria #MuslimWomen #WorldHijabDay
— Voice of Nigeria (@voiceofnigeria) February 2, 2024
Barrister Dindi said the focus of the coalition revolves around advocating for the recognition and protection of the right to wear the hijab without fear of harm or prejudice.
She added that the coalition is committed to spreading the message in all possible ways until it is widely understood and embraced.
The legal practitioner called for the support of teachers and ambassadors of Islam to demonstrate that the coalition is not alone in advocating for the cause.
On her part, Firdaus Amasa called on governments at all levels to create and provide services that cater to all, including those whose appearance is defined by their belief and obedience to a command from the divine creator.
She urged the National Assembly to pass the ‘Religious Discrimination (Prohibition, Prevention) Bill, 2021, which passed its second reading in March 2021, to prevent it from entering the basement of discarded bills and introduce and pass laws that serve the interests of all citizens. Laws that protect the rights and freedoms of all, regardless of what one wears.
She also called on the Ministry of Education at the federal and state levels to pay attention to the unnecessary victimisation of students, which has become a recurring problem in schools and institutions. They should guarantee
The Coalition of Nigerian Muslim Women unites various organisations, including FOMWAN, NASFAT, Women in Da’awah, JADAFIA, Criterion, Ansaruddeen MESH, Muslim schools in Abuja and many more. Committed to addressing challenges faced by women, especially within the Muslim community.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s first lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, also celebrated Muslim girls and women on World Hijab Day.
Today, I celebrate all our Muslim girls and women who bring dignity, beauty, and diversity to womanhood through their choice to wear the Hijab.
May this day, as reflected in the theme for this year, VeiledInStrength
be a reflection of the strength, resilience, and grace…— Sen Oluremi Tinubu, CON (@SenRemiTinubu) February 1, 2024
