The Chairman of the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Disu Kamor, has commended hijab advocates across the world for their role in promoting understanding, acceptance and respect for Muslim women who wear the hijab.
Kamor made the remarks on Sunday in a statement issued to commemorate World Hijab Day, calling for greater inclusion and an end to discrimination against hijab-wearing women and girls.
He said the sustained efforts of advocates have played a significant role in breaking stereotypes and encouraging peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
Despite growing global awareness of the hijab, Kamor expressed concern over ongoing challenges in Nigeria.
He pointed to reported cases of discrimination, harassment and exclusion faced by Muslim female students in some public schools, particularly in parts of southern Nigeria, attributing such incidents to restrictive hijab policies.
According to him, these practices contravene constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of religion and expression and are inconsistent with the ideals of a pluralistic society.
Reaffirming MPAC’s solidarity with hijab-wearing women and girls, Kamor described the hijab as a symbol of faith, identity and resilience.
He urged Muslim women to remain steadfast, noting that wearing the hijab with confidence is a legitimate way of asserting and safeguarding their constitutional rights.
He also called on governments, educational authorities and community leaders to review and dismantle discriminatory policies, while promoting inclusivity, mutual respect and understanding.
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Kamor further appealed to hijab advocates to continue their work, stressing that collective action is vital to building a society where women are free to practice their faith with dignity.
He reminded Muslim women that they are part of a long and enduring tradition of faith dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and that they are supported by a global community of believers.
World Hijab Day is observed annually to raise awareness about the hijab and to oppose discrimination faced by Muslim women worldwide.
