WIFE of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, has commended Muslim women across the federation for their steadfast commitment to faith and identity as Nigeria joins the global community in commemorating the World Hijab Day 2026.
In a goodwill message to mark the occasion, themed: ‘Unity in Hijab’, the First Lady described the attire as a powerful symbol of obedience, dignity, strength and devotion for millions of women globally.

She noted that, beyond its religious significance, the hijab also reflects personal freedom and cultural expression.
Mrs Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity remains one of its greatest assets, urging citizens to continue fostering understanding and harmony across religious and ethnic lines.

According to the President’s wife, respect for individual beliefs and traditions is essential to building a peaceful and progressive society.

ALSO, Executive Chairman of the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Disu Kamor, has lauded hijab advocates worldwide for promoting understanding, acceptance and respect for Muslim women who embrace the culture.

Kamor made the commendation yesterday in a statement to mark World Hijab Day, where he called for greater inclusion and an end to discrimination against hijab-wearing women and girls.

He said the consistent advocacy had contributed significantly to breaking stereotypes and fostering peaceful co-existence among diverse communities.

While acknowledging increased global awareness of the hijab, the MPAC chairman expressed concern over persistent challenges in Nigeria.

He cited reported cases of discrimination, harassment and exclusion of Muslim female students in some public schools, noting that such incidents are more common in parts of Southern Nigeria, and are often linked to restrictive hijab policies.

According to Kamor, these practices violate constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of religion and expression and run contrary to the principles of a pluralistic society.

Reaffirming MPAC’s solidarity with hijab-wearing women and girls, Kamor described the adornment as a symbol of faith, identity and resilience.

He urged Muslim women to remain steadfast, stressing that wearing the hijab with confidence is a legitimate means of asserting and protecting their constitutional rights.

ALSO, a coalition of Muslim women in Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to revisit the uniform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to accommodate female corps members who wear the hijab.
Speaking at a news briefing in Abuja at the weekend to commemorate the global event, a member, Firdausi Amasa, stressed the need for inclusivity in the NYSC dress code.

World Hijab Day, observed yearly on February 1, is a global initiative that celebrates the significance and beauty of the Muslim woman’s attire.

The campaign was started in 2013 by Nazma Khan, who drew inspiration from her personal experiences of discrimination for choosing to wear the hijab.