The National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) Nigeria, led a school sensitization campaign, in a bid to break the silence on menstrual health and hygiene.
NCWS, in collaboration with Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), Amina Agbo Foundation and Stratech Properties Ltd, commemorated the 2025 world menstrual hygiene day, at Government Science Secondary School, New Karu.
The outreach with theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” drew students, educators, partners, and stakeholders who are passionate about menstrual hygiene, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
NCWS National President, Princess Edna D.D. Azura, emphasized the need to dismantle the stigma and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. She urged society to foster an environment where menstruation is openly discussed and respected.
Azura, represented by the 1st Vice President, Geraldine Etuk-Ita, stated that, “Menstruation is not a curse; it is a sign of strength, resilience, and womanhood. No girl should ever feel ashamed of her body.
“By providing the right information, support, and access to hygiene materials, we empower our girls to stay in school and reach their full potential.”
She also commended the school for welcoming the initiative and acknowledged the support of key partners.
Principal Government Science Secondary School, Mr. Shimudeyi Maikasuwah, in his welcome address, lauded the efforts of NCWS and its partners, describing the initiative as timely and educational.
Maikasuwah said, “This is not the first time NCWS is visiting our school, and each visit leaves a lasting impact. We appreciate their role in shaping the future of our girls. We also look forward to involving male students in future sessions, as they are also future parents who must understand menstrual health.”
He called for improvements in facilities and apologized for the makeshift arrangements used during the event, reiterating the importance of creating dignified spaces for menstrual health discussions.
Mr. Maikasuwah also challenged global leaders on gender equality, stating that even nations like the United States have yet to fully reflect gender inclusivity in leadership.
On her part, the Gender and Youth Focal Officer at Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), Halima Yahaha, reinforced their commitment to menstrual health by donating 1,000 sanitary pads to students, recognizing the financial barriers many girls face in accessing menstrual products.
Halima gave a live demonstration on the proper usage of sanitary pads, offering students a hands-on guide to menstrual hygiene.
“This outreach is part of our broader goal to ensure every girl has access to the right knowledge and materials to manage her menstruation safely and with dignity,” she said.
Also, Program Officer, The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Delphine Soufo, gave a passionate plea for inclusion, reminding attendees of the double burden faced by women and girls with disabilities.
“Women with disabilities are often left out of such conversations. We must recognize their unique needs and ensure they are not sidelined in our menstrual health advocacy,” she emphasized, urging collaboration to reach out to marginalized groups.
Blessing Godwin, an SS1 student of the school, expressed her appreciation to the council for enlightening the students on the issues they shy away from during menstruation.
According to her, ” I have learnt that it is important to discuss our menstrual experience with our parents, especially our mothers instead of hiding and being shy when we are menstruating.
“Also discuss it with our female and male friends as menstruation is not a taboo or something to be ashamed of.”