The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation highlighted the ongoing challenges women and girls face globally in accessing menstrual products. This was discussed during an event held on Thursday at the ministry’s Vocational Centre in Isheri, Berger.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, alongside other facilitators, educated students from Isheri Senior Grammar School and the vocational centre on maintaining proper hygiene during menstruation.
In celebration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, Dada announced the distribution of 6,000 packs of sanitary pads to women across Lagos. She emphasized that menstrual hygiene is not only a health issue but also a matter of human rights, dignity, and equality. The theme for this year’s event was “Together for a Period-Friendly World.”
“Many women and girls face significant challenges in managing their periods due to the lack of access to sanitary products, clean water, and proper facilities,” Dada noted. “This lack of access can lead to negative health outcomes, missed educational and work opportunities, and ongoing stigma and shame around menstruation.”
Dada reaffirmed the state’s commitment to creating a period-friendly world for all. “On this Menstrual Hygiene Day, let us empower women and girls by providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to manage their periods safely and confidently. We must collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, businesses, and communities to create sustainable solutions that address menstrual health needs. Together, we can make a positive impact and transform menstrual health and hygiene for generations to come.”
Keynote speaker Amaka Aniekwe urged the girls to maintain cleanliness and use sanitary pads during menstruation. She emphasized the importance of washing hands before and after using sanitary pads and disposing of them properly. Aniekwe also called on the Nigerian government to remove excessive taxes on menstrual products to help curb period poverty. “Manufacturing companies can reach out to girls, which will help curb period poverty. I also urge the government to reduce the excessive 20% duty rate on menstrual products and the 7.5% VAT. The cost of menstrual products is high,” she stated.
Students of Isheri Senior Grammar School expressed their gratitude for the event. Mary Odutola found it highly educational, and Sumayah Ojeola shared that she often kept extra pads for friends who couldn’t afford them.
Permanent Secretary Oluyemi Kalesanwo, in his vote of thanks, mentioned that Lagos periodically distributes sanitary pads to schools and markets. Following the event, the ministry visited various locations, including Ipodo Market in Ikeja, Agboyi Riverine, Agbalata Market, Ikeja Ilaje Community, Kosofe, and Oko Agbon, to continue their outreach.
