The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has called for increased awareness of menstrual hygiene and improved access to sanitary products, urging stakeholders to eliminate the stigma surrounding menstruation.
In a statement marking this year’s World Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally this month, the association said menstrual health remains a major issue affecting the dignity, education, confidence and well-being of millions of women and girls, particularly in underserved communities.
NAWOJ FCT stressed that no girl should be denied educational opportunities or subjected to discrimination because of menstruation.
“No girl should miss school, feel ashamed, or suffer discrimination simply because of a natural biological process,” the association said.
The group urged governments, development partners, schools, healthcare institutions and community leaders to prioritise menstrual health education and ensure affordable sanitary products are available to all women and girls.
According to the association, addressing menstrual hygiene challenges is critical to advancing gender equality and social inclusion.
“This year’s commemoration serves as a reminder that menstrual hygiene is not merely a health issue but also a matter of human rights, gender equality and social inclusion,” the statement added.
NAWOJ FCT also reaffirmed its commitment to using the media as a platform to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene, challenge harmful cultural taboos and advocate policies that protect the health and dignity of women and girls.
The association further called on stakeholders to invest more in menstrual health initiatives and create supportive environments where girls can thrive without fear, shame or limitations associated with menstruation.
World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually to promote good menstrual health practices and encourage action towards ending period poverty and menstrual stigma worldwide.
