In a landmark ruling delivered on July 13, 2025, Justice Hauwa Yilwa of the Federal High Court, Abuja, declared the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) trousers-only policy unconstitutional, ruling that it infringes on the rights of corps members to freedom of religion and human dignity.
Citing Sections 38 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the judge ruled in favour of Miss Ogunjobi Blessing and Miss Ayuba Vivian, who filed separate but consolidated suits—FHC/ABJ/CS/989/2020 and FHC/ABJ/CS/988/2020—after they were allegedly harassed for choosing to wear skirts in line with their religious beliefs.
The plaintiffs based their position on Deuteronomy 22:5, which they argued forbids women from wearing clothing traditionally associated with men.
The court upheld their claim, issuing the following key orders:
A declaration that the NYSC’s policy violates the applicants’ constitutional and religious rights.
A directive mandating the NYSC to allow skirts as an alternative uniform for female corps members who object to trousers on religious grounds.
An award of ₦10 million in damages to each applicant as compensation for the harassment and psychological trauma they suffered.
While the NYSC is yet to comment officially, legal experts suggest the ruling could set a far-reaching precedent for dress codes within Nigeria’s public institutions, especially those interfacing with diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
The judgment is being hailed by many as a major win for religious freedom, gender inclusivity, and the entrenchment of constitutional rights in institutional practices. As Nigeria continues to honour the contributions of its youth, this ruling marks a potentially transformative chapter in the evolution of the NYSC.