The Kwara State Ministry of Health, in partnership with adolescent-focused non-governmental organisations, joined the global community to observe World Menstrual Hygiene Day, reaffirming its commitment to advancing menstrual health education and supporting vulnerable populations across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Adolescent Health Desk Officer, Mr. Oladimeji Buhari, said this year’s observance was structured to extend beyond the conventional activities associated with the annual campaign.
According to him, the programme placed special emphasis on involving boys and young men in discussions surrounding menstrual health while also reaching adolescents with special needs.
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He noted that the approach reflects the government’s resolve to ensure equitable access to menstrual health information and support services for all groups.
The awareness activities took place at Kwara State School for Special Needs and Government Day Secondary School, Fate-Basin, where students, including those who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, intellectually challenged, and other vulnerable learners, participated in the sensitization exercise.
Buhari explained that the programme was designed to improve understanding of menstrual health and hygiene among adolescents and provide a supportive environment where issues related to menstruation could be discussed openly without stigma or discrimination.
He stressed that one of the key goals was to help young girls appreciate menstruation as a natural biological process rather than a source of fear or anxiety.
“The initiative also sought to break long-standing cultural, religious, and social barriers surrounding menstrual discussions by actively engaging boys in the conversation,” he said.
In her remarks, the Principal of Kwara State School for Special Needs, Hajia Rasheedat Jubril, commended the Ministry of Health and its development partners for organising the programme.
She described the menstrual health awareness campaign as particularly beneficial for girls with special needs, emphasising the importance of equipping them with accurate information and guidance.
Participants received comprehensive information on menstrual health and were encouraged to seek advice from trusted adults and qualified healthcare professionals whenever they needed support regarding their reproductive health.
Organisers noted that the campaign helped students understand that menstruation is a normal and healthy experience shared by millions of girls and women worldwide, rather than a medical condition or disease.
They also encouraged participants to speak openly about menstrual health concerns and seek assistance whenever necessary.
