Menstrual Hygiene Day: Heal for Africa Calls for Action, Not Just Awareness

By Sultan

As the world marks Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, Nigerian NGO Heal for Africa Initiative is urging government leaders to treat menstrual health as a national priority — not just a women’s issue.

Founder Dr. Kelechi Okoro called for strong political will, including policies, budgets, and cross-ministry collaboration, to tackle the stigma, poor access, and lack of education around menstruation.

“It’s time to shift from token awareness to transformational action,” she said.

Millions of girls in Nigeria still can't afford sanitary pads, relying on unsafe alternatives like rags or leaves. Okoro stressed the need for tax-free, locally made products and investment in menstrual education for both girls and boys.

She also highlighted the lack of clean toilets in many schools, which forces girls to miss class during their periods.

To mark the day, the NGO distributed pads and hosted health sessions in Ebonyi and Abia States. Dr. Okoro concluded with a powerful reminder:

“Menstrual health is a human rights and development issue. Let’s build a Nigeria where periods are met with dignity, not shame.”

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