The Nigerian Law School has clarified its dress code and examination screening procedures for female Muslim candidates following complaints over the treatment of hijab-wearing students during the first phase of the 2026 Bar Final Examinations.
The clarification followed a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Director-General of the institution after concerns were raised by female candidates over restrictions on religious attire and screening arrangements.
The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Bwari Campus, Abuja, disclosed the outcome in a statement dated November 2, 2026, signed by its Secretary-General, Muhammad Alfa Muhammad.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Law School management, examination officials and the MSSN. The Director-General was represented by the Director of Academics, S. T. Abdulrahman.
According to the Society, the management confirmed that female Muslim candidates would be allowed to wear shoulder-length hijabs during examinations.
It also approved skirts extending to the ankles and flowing gowns that do not go beyond ankle length. However, abayas and bubu-style clothing were excluded from the permitted examination dress code.
The management further confirmed that socks would be allowed, subject to compliance with the prescribed screening procedures.
Female candidates to be screened by female officials
On examination security, the Law School agreed that female candidates would be screened by designated female staff, while male candidates would be screened by designated male personnel.
Dedicated officials would be assigned to conduct the screening, including checks around relevant areas such as the ears and neck, in line with examination security requirements.
The MSSN said the screening must be carried out professionally and with due regard for the dignity of candidates.
The Society urged students to familiarise themselves with the clarified dress requirements and arrive early at examination centres to allow sufficient time for screening and other entry procedures.
It said the concerns raised after the first examination day had been formally presented to the management and resolved through dialogue.
The MSSN also commended the Director-General for facilitating the engagement and acknowledged the contributions of the officials and examination personnel who participated.
It disclosed that a delegation of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN), Abuja Branch, led by its chairman, visited the campus and expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
The Society appealed to Muslim students, parents, religious organisations and members of the public to remain calm, avoid speculation and allow the agreed arrangements to be implemented.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the religious convictions and dignity of Muslim students while recognising the need to maintain examination integrity and enforce legitimate institutional regulations.
The MSSN encouraged candidates to remain focused on their examinations, expressing confidence that the remaining exercises would proceed peacefully under the clarified arrangements.
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