FCT Women Affairs Secretariat rallies support for a Period-Friendly Environment

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Women Affairs Secretariat has called on residents and stakeholders to work towards making the FCT a period-friendly environment, as Nigeria joins the global community in marking the 2025 World Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Speaking during the commemoration, the Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Honourable Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, emphasised the urgent need to prioritise the education of the girl child. She maintained that a girl’s biological reality, menstruation, must never become a barrier to accessing quality education.

“It is time to normalise menstruation and ensure that a stained uniform does not become a source of mockery, but rather a chance to show empathy and support,” she said.

Dr Benjamins-Laniyi lauded the FCT Administration under the leadership of FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmud, for placing children’s welfare, particularly that of the girl child, at the forefront of their policies.

This year’s theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” is a clarion call for inclusive action, according to the Mandate Secretary. She stressed that menstrual health should not hinder access to education, healthcare, or any other opportunities for young girls.

Dr Benjamins-Laniyi appealed to non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to continue partnering with the government to provide schoolgirls with essential menstrual hygiene products such as sanitary towels, deodorants, body sprays, and clean water facilities. She added that these items are key to helping girls feel confident and safe during their menstrual periods.

She pointed out that inadequate sanitation in schools contributes to girls missing classes during their periods, noting that “a lot of girls stay away from school during their menstrual cycle because the environment is not conducive.”

The Mandate Secretary further underscored the importance of regular sensitisation campaigns on menstrual hygiene. “It is a misconception to think that a girl of 10 or 12 years who just began menstruating will automatically know how to manage it. That’s why days like this are so important, to raise awareness and educate both girls and the wider society.”

World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on 28 May to break taboos, promote menstrual health education, and ensure no one is held back simply because they menstruate.

Sharoneez Emephia