Girls must not feel ashamed, as menstruation is a natural part of womanhood and a symbol of female dignity
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 the advice during an event on Wednesday organised with the Nigeria Girls’ Guild and Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.
The event was held to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHDay) and was attended by students from both public and private schools across Lagos.
With the theme ‘Together for a Period Friendly World’, the event aimed to raise awareness and promote dignity in menstrual hygiene.
“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 said.
She 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.
She explained that girls need awareness on menstrual hygiene management and should know how to prepare for their periods in a healthy, informed way.
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.
Adesola highlighted that maintaining menstrual hygiene is vital in preventing infections and ensuring comfort throughout the menstrual cycle.
She noted that the event also helped to raise awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine available free in health centres across Lagos.
“We’re here to mark MHDay and to engage girls on HPV awareness. The state government has provided the vaccine, and sensitisation must continue,” she explained.
She encouraged girls to discuss the HPV vaccine with their parents to gain consent, ensuring protection against cervical cancer.
“The vaccine is safe, effective, and accessible in state facilities for girls aged nine to fourteen, but many have not yet been vaccinated,” she added.
Meanwhile, Ethagah Divine, Head Girl of New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Surulere, called on NGOs to provide sanitary pads for girls.
She urged 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. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)