The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has encouraged girls to embrace menstruation with pride and confidence, recognising themselves as vital contributors to humanity’s sustainability.
Mrs. Aderonke Akinwole, Social and Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF, gave this advice during an event commemorating Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHDay) on Wednesday in Lagos.
The event with the Theme: ‘Together for a Period Friendly World,’ aimed to raise awareness and promote dignity in menstrual hygiene.
Akinwole said, “When a girl begins menstruation, it should be celebrated.
”It signifies her transition into womanhood and her ability to sustain life. They should be proud, and seek accurate, helpful information to remain safe, clean, and healthy during their period.”
Akinwole emphasised that girls must not feel ashamed, as menstruation is a natural part of womanhood and a symbol of female dignity.
She urged the state government to increase sensitisation efforts and include menstrual hygiene education in school curricula, religious settings, and community platforms.
Akinwole also warned against stigmatisation, especially from boys, and called for boys to be educated to respect menstruation as part of girls’ lives.
“Girls should understand the menstrual cycle even before it starts. This should be part of health education in schools, churches, mosques, and communities,” she said.
Mrs. Honfor Adesola, Director of Education at Lagos State Primary Education Board, commended UNICEF’s support in promoting menstrual hygiene and addressing issues affecting girls.
She highlighted that maintaining menstrual hygiene was vital in preventing infections and ensuring comfort throughout the menstrual cycle.
Adesola also noted that the event helped raise awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine available free in health centers across Lagos.
Students at the event called on NGOs to provide sanitary pads for girls and promote more campaigns and rallies to distribute free menstrual products.
Ethagah Divine, Head Girl of New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Surulere, said, “We need more campaigns and rallies to distribute free menstrual products, like UNICEF did, to promote hygiene and dignity during menstruation.”
Miss Emmanuella Azubuike, a student of the same school, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and partners for the impactful menstrual hygiene awareness event.
“This programme has expanded my knowledge on menstrual hygiene and HPV. More NGOs should support these campaigns to reach and educate more young girls,” she said.
