By Victor Okoye
The Centre for School Health Education and Environmental Hygiene (CSHEEH) and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have called for collective action against menstrual stigma in schools.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the call was made during the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration at Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, Abuja, themed: “Together for a Period Friendly World.”
Executive Director of CSHEEH, Dr. Folasade Olusola Momoh, said the organisation remained committed to improving adolescent health and menstrual hygiene awareness among schoolgirls.
Momoh said CSHEEH had, for over 10 years, partnered with schools, health professionals and stakeholders to deliver health education and dignity support programmes.
“Every girl deserves to learn in an environment that protects her health, dignity and confidence without fear or shame during menstruation,” she said.
She described menstruation as a natural process requiring open discussion, support and access to affordable sanitary products for girls.
According to her, improved menstrual hygiene management reduces absenteeism and enhances girls’ academic performance and participation in school activities.
Momoh urged governments, private organisations, faith groups and individuals to support efforts aimed at making sanitary products accessible to girls nationwide.
“We must build schools and communities where no girl feels isolated or disadvantaged because of her monthly cycle,” she added.
Representing the FCT Education Secretariat, Deputy Director of School Health Services, Mr. Solomon Johnson, commended CSHEEH for its sustained interventions in adolescent health promotion.
Johnson described the organisation as a dependable partner contributing significantly to school health systems and girl-child development in the FCT.
“CSHEEH has consistently supported girls with accurate menstrual hygiene information, helping to break harmful myths and cultural taboos,” he said.
He noted that the organisation’s school outreach programmes had improved girls’ confidence and reduced absenteeism during menstruation.
Johnson also praised Momoh’s dedication to vulnerable girls, describing her as a passionate advocate for adolescent health and education.
Senior Education Officer, Secondary Education Board, Mrs. Zainab Nuhu, said menstrual hygiene remained essential to girls’ health, education and personal development.
“When girls receive proper support and sanitary materials, they stay in school, build confidence and perform better academically,” Nuhu said.
Women’s health expert, Dr. Clement Mary Dennis, educated students on proper menstrual hygiene practices, including sanitary pad usage, disposal and personal hygiene.
Dennis encouraged the students to embrace menstruation confidently and seek support whenever necessary.
“Menstruation is normal and should never become a source of shame or embarrassment for any girl,” she said.
The Principal of Government Girls Secondary School, Dutse, Dr. Fati Mohammad, represented by Mr. Adekunle Oyedepo, appreciated CSHEEH and partners for supporting the students.
Oyedepo said the programme would help students better understand menstrual hygiene and improve their confidence and wellbeing.
The event featured interactive sessions, health talks, practical demonstrations and distribution of sanitary towels and educational flyers to students and staff.
Stakeholders at the event called for sustained advocacy, stronger collaboration and improved access to affordable sanitary products across schools in the FCT. (NAN)