NGO calls for political will to improve menstrual health, education

By Oluwafunke Ishola
An NGO, Heal for Africa Initiative, says there must be sustained political will from governments at all levels to recognise menstrual health as a public health, education, and gender equity issue.

Its Founder, Dr Kelechi Okoro, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos in commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Okoro said this required concrete policies, dedicated budgets, and intersectoral collaboration, from Ministries of Health, Education, Gender Affairs and Water Resources.

“Only then can we create systemic change for menstrual health.

“In 2025, as we observe this crucial day, we must shift from token awareness to transformational action,” she said.

She emphasised that menstruation was a normal biological process, yet in Nigeria and many parts of the world, it remained cloaked in shame, taboos, poor access to hygiene products, and a lack of comprehensive education.

“These barriers perpetuate gender inequality, compromise health, and limit opportunities, especially for young girls,” she said.

Okoro explained that the 2025 global and national message centred around building a period-friendly Nigeria and world, calling for improved access to affordable and safe menstrual products.

“Too many Nigerian girls and women cannot afford basic sanitary pads. Some resort to unhygienic alternatives like rags, newspapers, or even leaves, risking infections and discomfort.

“A period-friendly Nigeria must prioritise making menstrual products affordable, tax-free, and locally available, especially in underserved communities.

“Government policy must support local manufacturers while NGOs and the private sector must scale free and subsidised distribution initiatives,” she said.

The health advocate also called for comprehensive menstrual health education, adding that menstrual education remains fragmented or absent in many schools and homes.

According to her, misconceptions fuel fear, shame, and confusion among adolescents experiencing their first periods.

“Comprehensive sexuality and menstrual education, integrated in school curricula and community outreach, is essential. Everyone, including boys and men, must be educated to foster empathy and end stigma,” Okoro said.

She highlighted the importance of investing in WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) infrastructure, especially in rural and marginalised areas.

“Many public schools and facilities lack clean, functional toilets with water, soap, and privacy, thereby making it hard for menstruators to manage their periods safely and with dignity.

“Girls shouldn’t have to miss school because they can’t change their pads discreetly,” she said.

She underscored the need to break the silence and end menstrual stigma, disclosing that the silence and shame surrounding menstruation are often more harmful than the physical process itself.

To celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day, Okoro disclosed that her NGO partnered with other organisations to donate sanitary pads and give menstrual health education to girls in the states of Ebonyi and Abia.

Okoro emphasised that menstrual health was not just a “women’s issue”, but a human rights issue, development issue, and a national concern.

“We all have a role to play from the policymakers, educators, parents, influencers, the media, and community leaders.

“Let’s build a world where menstruation is no longer a source of shame but of strength.

“A Nigeria where women and girls can manage their periods safely, confidently, and with dignity,” Okoro said.

Menstruation, also known as a period, is the normal vaginal bleeding that occurs monthly in women as part of the menstrual cycle.

Menstrual Hygiene Day, celebrated annually on May 28, with the 2025 theme as “Together for a Period Friendly World”, urges collective action to ensure that menstruation does not limit access to education, health, or opportunity.

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