Nigeria's Lagos State approves use of hijab in public schools

The Lagos State Government has approved use of hijab (head and body covering for females) in public schools in the state. 

This was contained in a circular by the state government which was shared by the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) who had championed the use of hijabs and celebrated the decision. 

“Since the case of the use of Hijab in Lagos State is still pending in the Supreme court of Nigeria, status quo be maintained, to avoid contempt of the court, that is students be allowed to wear Hijabs on school uniforms but same must be short, smart, neat and in the same colour of the uniform (skirt),” the government was quoted as saying in the circular. 

In its statement, the MSSN expressed satisfaction with the decision which comes a day after the international school of the University of Ibadan in neighbouring Oyo State was shut after some female students were stopped for wearing hijabs.

The circular, signed by A.O Olukoya for Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, read in part:

    “Since the case of the use of Hijab in Lagos State is still pending in the Supreme court of Nigeria, status quo be maintained, to avoid contempt of the court, that is students be allowed to wear Hijabs on school uniforms but same must be short, smart, neat and in the same colour of the uniform (skirt).

    Furthermore, schools management are advised to downplay comments and disciplinary actions on the use of smart Hijabs until the final determination of the case by Supreme Court. No student should be discriminated against in any form on the basis of religion.

    All principals and teachers must be sensitized to comply accordingly. You are enjoined to adhere strictly to these recommendations.”  The circular conveyed the government’s approval “of the outcome /recommendations of the panel on the use of Hijab” and urged compliance.