The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) must allow female corps members to wear skirts as part of their uniform, citing the right to freedom of religion. Justice Hauwa Yilwa delivered the judgment on June 13, 2025, stating that the NYSC's insistence on trousers as the only acceptable uniform for female participants violates their constitutional rights.
Background of the Case
Two former corps members, Miss Ogunjobi Blessing and Miss Ayuba Vivian, filed separate suits against the NYSC, arguing that the policy requiring female corps members to wear trousers conflicted with their Christian faith. They cited Deuteronomy 22:5, which they interpret as prohibiting women from wearing garments associated with men ¹ ².
Court Ruling
The court declared that ³ ¹:
- *The refusal to allow skirts for religious purposes is unconstitutional*: The NYSC's policy infringes on the applicants' rights to freedom of religion and human dignity.
- *NYSC must recognize and permit skirts for female corps members*: The court mandated the NYSC to allow female corps members with genuine religious objections to wear skirts.
- *Affected corps members to be recalled and issued certificates*: The NYSC was directed to recall the affected former corps members and issue their certificates accordingly.
Damages Awarded
Although the applicants sought ₦10 million in damages each, the court awarded ₦500,000 to each applicant, citing that this amount was adequate in the circumstances ¹ ³.
Implications of the Ruling
The court's decision emphasizes that denying individuals the opportunity to complete their national service due to their attire amounts to religious discrimination. The ruling is a significant step towards promoting religious freedom and tolerance within the NYSC ³.
