In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to allow female corps members to wear skirts instead of trousers if it aligns with their religious beliefs.
The judgment, delivered on June 13, 2025, by Justice Hauwa Yilwa, declared NYSC’s uniform policy, which mandates trousers for all female members, unconstitutional and a violation of religious freedom and human dignity.
Lawsuits Spark Change
The case originated from two consolidated lawsuits filed by former corps members Miss Ogunjobi Blessing and Miss Ayuba Vivian, who claimed that wearing trousers during their service year conflicted with their Christian faith. Citing Deuteronomy 22:5, they argued the policy infringed on their right to religious expression.
In their suit, they also requested:
- A declaration that NYSC’s uniform policy is discriminatory.
- An option for skirted uniforms for women who request it on religious grounds.
- ₦10 million in damages for harassment and humiliation.
Court’s Decision
While the court rejected the ₦10 million damages, it awarded ₦500,000 each to the applicants and ordered NYSC to:
- Permit skirts as part of the uniform for religious reasons.
- Recall the applicants and issue them their discharge certificates.
As of now, NYSC has not commented on the ruling.
