The Coalition of Nigerian Muslim Women has called on the National Assembly to introduce and pass laws that serve the interest of all citizens. Laws, which protects the rights and freedom of all, to education, health, employment, finance, home ownership, career, etc, regardless of what one wears.
This was contained in an opening remarks read by Firdausa Amasa on behalf of the Coalition of Nigerian Muslim Women during a press conference to commemorate the 2024 World Hijab Day in Abuja.
According to Amasa, “We urge you in strong terms, to speedly pass the ‘Religious Discrimination (Prohibition, Prevention) Bill, 2021’ which passed second reading since March 2021, and prevent it from entering the basement of the discarded bills.
The passage of this will surely be worthwhile for posterity”. This year’s celebration, which has the theme ” VeiledInStrenght” which the Coalition noted as apt considering the popular notion where Hijabis are viewed as subdued, oppressed and without a voice. Her words: “It is therefore important to accentuate the strength that comes with the use of Hijab.
Hijab is absolutely a sign of freedom, empowerment, and strength for the wearers. It is won by choice, and it is not a symbol of oppression, it never was, and it will never be so.” She further highlighted some of the gains of the advocacy, noting that the Lagos State Fire Service officially approved the wearing of hijab by Muslim women referred to as Fire Men. According to her, the Hijab Rights Advocacy has also appealed to the NYSC officials to allow Corps Members wear their Hijab along with their uniform.
They also appealed to other organisations exhibiting ant-hijab sentiment to have a rethink because it is allowed under the Nigerian Laws and constitution. The Coalition also deeply appreciated the support of the media, whom they noted have always provided sufficient and balanced reportage of the Annual World Hijab Day.
Other activities lined up for the 2024 Edition included world press conference, and visitation to media houses, Hijab outreach and Public Lecture.
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