By Peter Omopo
Abuja | July 27, 2025 — The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) must allow female corps members to wear skirts in accordance with their religious convictions, declaring the agency’s insistence on trousers as unconstitutional.
Justice Hauwa Yilwa, delivering judgement on June 13, 2025, ruled that the NYSC’s uniform policy violated the fundamental rights to freedom of religion and human dignity as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
The suits, filed by two former corps members—Miss Ogunjobi Blessing and Miss Ayuba Vivian—were consolidated by the court due to their similar claims. The applicants argued that wearing trousers conflicted with their Christian beliefs, referencing Deuteronomy 22:5, which they interpret as forbidding women from wearing male clothing.
Justice Yilwa ruled in favour of the applicants, declaring that the NYSC’s refusal to accommodate their religious dress preferences amounted to religious discrimination and degrading treatment.
“The refusal to allow skirts for religious purposes is unconstitutional,” the court held. “The NYSC is hereby ordered to recognise and permit female corps members with genuine religious objections to wear skirts during the service year.”
The court further directed the NYSC to recall the affected applicants and issue them their certificates of national service. Additionally, it awarded ₦500,000 in damages to each of the former corps members for the violation of their rights—significantly less than the ₦10 million originally sought.
The suits were brought under Sections 38 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), relevant provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules 2009.
Reacting to the judgement, legal observers noted the decision could have far-reaching implications for uniform policies within government institutions and religious rights in public service.
Baba Shehu Ahmad and K.A. Lawal represented the applicants, while J.E. Okpe appeared for the NYSC.
The NYSC is yet to issue a public response to the ruling.
