By Prosper Mene
The Federal Government of Nigeria has adopted its first-ever National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM).
The policy, validated by stakeholders at a meeting in Abuja, aims to eliminate stigma surrounding menstruation, improve access to affordable sanitary products, and ensure girls can stay in school during their periods.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, described the policy as a transformative step toward ensuring that menstruation does not hinder the potential of women and girls. Represented by Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the minister highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that women aged 15 to 49 make up 25 to 30 percent of Nigeria’s population, with millions managing menstruation monthly. “Menstruation is a normal biological process that should never be a source of shame, stigma, or economic hardship,” she stated.
The policy will address critical challenges, including inadequate access to sanitary products, poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, and cultural taboos that contribute to school absenteeism and health issues. A key feature of the policy is the removal of taxes on sanitary towels, a decision championed by President Bola Tinubu, which is expected to make menstrual products more affordable. The initiative also seeks to integrate menstrual health education into school curricula and gender equality programs, with a vision that by 2030, no girl in Nigeria will have to choose between managing her period and pursuing her education.
The minister emphasized the policy’s benefits for national development, stating, “Menstrual health is not just a women’s issue but a family, community, and national development issue.” She highlighted alarming statistics, including that 15 percent of girls aged 15 to 19 are already mothers or pregnant, and over 7.3 million adolescent girls and women suffer from undernutrition, conditions worsened by poor menstrual hygiene.
The policy aims to empower communities by fostering open dialogue and breaking cultural taboos.The adoption of the MHHM policy aligns Nigeria with global leaders like Kenya, Scotland, and New Zealand, which have implemented measures to provide free or affordable menstrual products and education.
By prioritizing menstrual health, Nigeria is taking a bold step toward ensuring that girls and women can thrive without the barriers of stigma or lack of resources.
The Federal Government called for strong collaboration across sectors and active participation from states, communities, and development partners to ensure the policy’s successful implementation.
