By Muhammad Amaan
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has collaborated with stakeholders to eradicate menstrual poverty and enhance menstrual hygiene among women and girls in Nigeria.
They made commitments during the National Dialogue on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management in Nigeria themed ‘Accelerating Efforts for Eradicating Menstrual Poverty’ in Abuja.
The Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, Mr Francis Adebisi, said the dialogue will enable the ministry to reflect on the challenges and experiences women and girls go through during their monthly cycle.
Menstruation is the monthly bleeding women and girls experience at puberty, where the body discards the build-up of the lining of the uterus, indicating the absence of pregnancy.
Adebisi, who was represented by Mr Andrew Madugu, the Director of the Child Department, said that the dialogue was to also raise awareness towards putting more efforts into tackling MHHM.
“This gathering is therefore, aimed at raising awareness on what can be done and to redouble our efforts as individuals, policymakers, MDAs and other stakeholders toward addressing menstrual hygiene.”
The Co-chair of the dialogue, Elizabeth Jeiyol, said the discussion would contribute to the development of a roadmap that would guide the course of action.
She said, “Each perspective shared, every idea presented and every commitment made will contribute to the roadmap that will guide our collective efforts.”
Helen Idiong, the representative of a non-governmental organization, Plan International, underscored the need to eliminate the stigma surrounding menstruation, which she stressed is vital for the well-being of women.
“Issues around taboo and not speaking about menstruation is one of those things that are key toward the fight to allow girls to have their rights and dignity.”
Other partners at the event like WaterAid, UNESCO, UNFPA and Population Services Nigeria, also made commitments to tackle the challenges women and girls face during the monthly period.
