FG’s menstrual health policy offers hope for women, girls – Gender group

The Gender Educator Initiative (GEI) has commended the Federal Government for what it described as a bold and historic step — the adoption of Nigeria’s first-ever National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM) and the removal of tax on sanitary towels.

According to GEI, the landmark decision represents a victory for dignity, equity, and justice for millions of women and girls across the country. It noted that, for years, menstruation had been surrounded by stigma and financial barriers that denied girls access to education and limited women’s participation in society.

This move signals Nigeria’s recognition of menstrual health as a human rights issue, a public health concern, and a development priority, GEI stated.

The organisation applauded the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, as well as commissioners of women affairs in all 36 states and the FCT for their leadership.

It also acknowledged the vital contributions of WaterAid Nigeria and Population Services International (PSI), whose Menstrual Health No Wahala programme continues to impact communities in Sokoto, Bauchi, Kano, Lagos, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Akwa Ibom states.

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GEI’s Founder and Executive Lead, Shafa’atu Suleiman, called for the swift and inclusive implementation of the policy, along with sustained investment in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure to ensure no girl is left behind.

Menstruation should never be a barrier to opportunity. The Federal Government’s decision proves that when governments listen, women and girls win, Suleiman said.