Abuja, Nigeria: The Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) has called on lawmakers to fast-track the passage of Nigeria’s National Menstrual Health Policy and Law, warning that millions of girls face school absenteeism, stigma, and health risks due to lack of access to sanitary products.
Executive Director Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, speaking on the International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC) on Saturday in Abuja, urged the government to break the silence around menstruation and invest in dignity, education, and safety for girls—especially in underserved communities.
She cited reports revealing that one in 10 girls across Africa miss school during their periods, while up to 25 per cent of Nigerian schoolgirls lack access to safe menstrual hygiene products.
Akiyode-Afolabi highlighted that despite progress in health and education, millions of Nigerian girls still face period poverty, lacking sanitary products, proper hygiene facilities, and comprehensive menstrual education necessary for dignity and well-being.
“The situation is worse in rural communities, where access to water and sanitation facilities is often limited or non-existent, further increasing girls’ vulnerability during menstruation,” she said.
She warned that period poverty caused frequent school absenteeism, psychological trauma, shame, increased risks of reproductive tract infections, early school dropout, and contributed to child marriage in many areas.
“We must break the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation to ensure no girl is left behind due to a natural biological process,” she stressed during the IDGC commemoration.
Akiyode-Afolabi commended Bauchi State for pioneering a menstrual bank, the first of its kind, that provided free sanitary products to girls in schools and underserved communities.
“This bold intervention shows a deep understanding of the link between menstrual health, girls’ education, and empowerment,” she said, calling for replication of the model across all Nigerian states.
“WARDC remains committed to advancing gender equality and girls’ rights through legal advocacy, research, policy influence, community engagement, and enhancing girls’ access to education, healthcare, and protection from violence.”
She called for the urgent passage of the National Menstrual Health Policy and Law and strengthening school protocols to prevent and report sexual violence against girls.
The executive director also advocated for increased budget allocation toward girls’ health and hygiene programmes, along with community sensitisation, male engagement, and improved data collection and research on menstrual health.
“We reaffirm our belief that empowered girls create thriving societies. Girls are not victims of crisis; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” she said with conviction.
“But to lead effectively, girls must have the basic tools of dignity: education, safety, and good health.
“Let us rise to this moment and protect every girl’s right to live with dignity, free from stigma and discrimination,” she added, urging urgent action to break the silence and fight stigma nationwide.
