The Federal High Court in Abuja has shattered the NYSC’s decades-long uniform rule, declaring that female corps members who object on religious grounds can now wear skirts instead of trousers.
The historic ruling, delivered by Justice Hauwa Joseph Yilwa on June 13, 2025, affirms that the NYSC’s “trousers-only” policy for women is unconstitutional. By denying Christian corps members the option to wear skirts, the court said, the NYSC violated fundamental rights enshrined in Sections 38 and 42 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution—particularly the rights to freedom of religion, dignity, and protection from discrimination.
Faith vs. Fabric: The Backstory
The legal challenge was brought by Ogunjobi Blessing and Ayuba Vivian, two former corps members who cited Deuteronomy 22:5 in their refusal to wear trousers. The biblical verse is often interpreted by Christian conservatives to prohibit women from wearing clothing traditionally worn by men.
Their refusal to comply with the NYSC dress code meant they were denied their service certificates, effectively leaving their year of national service unacknowledged. In response, the women turned to the courts—seeking justice not only for themselves, but for all religiously observant women enrolled in the NYSC program.
The court consolidated their cases (FHC/ABJ/CS/988/2020 and FHC/ABJ/CS/989/2020) and ruled unanimously in their favor.
What the Court Ordered
Justice Yilwa’s ruling didn’t just address dress code preferences—it sent a powerful message about balancing uniformity with belief:
Struck down the trousers-only policy as unconstitutional and discriminatory.
Ordered NYSC to permit skirts for female corps members with sincere religious objections.
Directed the agency to recall the affected ex-corps members and issue their long-withheld certificates.
Awarded ₦500,000 each in damages, deeming the compensation adequate and symbolic of justice served.
A Defining Moment for Rights in Uniform
This case has triggered important national conversations. The ruling reaffirms:
| Core Issue | Judicial Response |
|---|---|
| Religious Freedom | Must be respected, even in structured institutions |
| Gender & Expression | Uniforms must not erase personal beliefs |
| Institutional Power | Cannot override constitutional rights |
| Equality in Service | Dress code must not be a tool for discrimination |
