FG, stakeholders collaborate to enhance menstrual hygiene

Federal Ministry of Women Affairs on Thursday collaborated with  stakeholders to enhance menstrual hygiene among women and girls in Nigeria. They made commitments during the National Dialogue on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM) in Nigeria with the theme “Accelerating Efforts for Eradicating Menstrual Poverty” in Abuja.

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Mr Francis Adebisi, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, said the dialogue would enable the ministry to reflect on challenges and experiences women and girls go through during the monthly circle.

Menstruation is the monthly bleeding women and girls experience at puberty where the body discards buildup of the lining of the uterus, indicating the absence of pregnancy.

Adebisi, who was represented by Mr Andrew Madugu, the Director, Child Department, said that the dialogue was to also raise awareness towards putting more efforts in tackling MHHM.

He said, “this gathering is therefore aimed at raising awareness on what can be done and to redouble our efforts as individuals, policy makers, MDAs and other stakeholders toward addressing menstrual hygiene.”

Elizabeth Jeiyol, the Co-chair of the dialogue, who was represented by Ruth During, said the discussion would contribute to the development of a roadmap that would guide the course of action.

She added that “each perspective shared, every idea presented and every commitment made will contribute to the roadmap that will guide our collective efforts.”

Helen Idiong, representative of Plan International, an NGO, stressed the need to eliminate stigma surrounding menstruation, which she said is vital for the well-being of women.

She explained that “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 committed partners, including WaterAid, UNESCO, UNFPA, and Population Services Nigeria, also made commitments to tackle challenges women and girls face during the monthly period.

NAN/Wumi