NYSC ‘approves’ shoulder-length hijab for corps members

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has reportedly approved a white shoulder-length hijab for female corps members who practice the Muslim code of wearing the veil.

The approval was for religious purposes.

According to Punch, the approval was made known in a statement obtained from officials of the scheme at the NYSC headquarters in Abuja.

The scheme said that only three types of dressing used for different occasions is acceptable for corps members: a pair of white shorts and vest on white canvas, a Khaki outfit and a pair of jungle boots, a jacket on trousers with a plain white vest for Man O’War activities.

“Mode of dressing for corps members is classified into three categories which are for different occasions. One, within the camp during the orientation programme, their normal attire, except otherwise directed, consists of a pair of white shorts with a white vest and white canvas shoes and socks,” the document read.

“Two, for ceremonial purposes, the proper dressing is crested vest on top of a pair of Khaki trousers with a pair of jungle boots and socks with the trouser folded inside the socks. The belt and the Fez cap are to match.

“Three, for Man O’War activities at the camp and Community Development Service programmes, they are expected to appear in a jacket and trousers with the plain white vest inside, the jungle boot and the Fez cap, as well as a customized belt to match.

“On the use of the hijab, the NYSC does not issue the hijab as part of its uniform. However, the NYSC management allows corps members to use a white hijab that drops at shoulder level for religious purposes.”