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Summary
Jigawa State has mandated that private security firms allow female operatives to wear the hijab while on duty, a move framed as inclusive but raising concerns about bodily autonomy of women and freedom of choice.
The Jigawa State Government has approved a directive allowing female security operatives to wear the hijab while on duty, following a resolution by the State Executive Council. The decision, announced by the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Sagir Musa Ahmed, affects three private security companies operating in the state. It mandates that the firms permit hijab use among their female staff as part of efforts to respect cultural and religious practices.
Commissioner Ahmed made the announcement on April 15, 2025 while addressing journalists at the Press Gallery of the Government House in Dutse. He noted that the directive is based on a report submitted by the Council Committee on Schools, Hospital, and Court Security.
“This policy affects female security operatives among the 9,969 personnel recruited across the state,” he said. “This move reflects the administration’s respect for the rights of individuals to dress according to their beliefs while maintaining professionalism and discipline,” he added.
The commissioner emphasised that the decision reinforces the government’s commitment to upholding modesty, inclusion, and dignity in the workplace.
The directive, while framed as inclusive, raises concerns about bodily autonomy and freedom of choice, as mandating the hijab for female personnel may pressure women to conform to religious dress codes, regardless of their personal beliefs or comfort.
