By Yemisi Dada
Effective period hygiene management among school girls will in no small measure boost their dignity and self confidence as well as reduce out of school girls during their monthly flow, hence the need for the private sector to complement government’s efforts at providing menstrual hygiene kits to school girls in Lagos.
Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Office of Drainage and Water Resources Mr Mamud Adegbite, made the call during a one-day symposium on Menstrual hygiene in commemoration of this year’s World Menstrual Day, organised by WaterAid Nigeria held in Ikeja.
The Permanent Secretary represented by a Director in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Adisa Yinusa, noted that improper disposal of sanitary pads poses danger to the environment including blockage of drainages and called for more awareness, access, usage and waste management for menstrual hygiene kits.
“It is impossible to stress the significance of managing menstrual hygiene as poor management can result in Cervical cancer, Urinary infections, and infections of the reproductive system. Poor menstrual hygiene can result in discrimination, marginalization, and social stigma towards women and girls.
The reason men are involved in menstrual hygiene management symposium today is that it reduces stigma, and fosters supportive environments for women. It helps men understand women’s health challenges, leading to better support in workplaces, families, and communities. Educated men can advocate for improved policies and infrastructure in influential sectors. Men in leadership positions can also create inclusive workplaces by implementing supportive policies and providing necessary sanitary facilities.”
Panelists at the symbolism who advised female students to avoid carbonated drinks and stay hydrated during their period to reduce cramps, urged the society to break the silence about menstrual challenges taboos and promote gender equality.
The Country Director WaterAid Nigeria, Ms Evelyn Mere who was represented by the Head of Lagos programme, WaterAid Nigeria, Dr Adebayo Alao, emphasized the importance of WASH facilities in public schools to encourage menstrual hygiene among girls and women.
“According to the 2021 Water, Sanitation and Hygiene National Outcome Routine Mapping, WASHNORM, Survey, in Nigeria, 94% of healthcare facilities do not have access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene services. While 89% of schools and 96% of markets and motor parks do not have basic water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services.
This year’s theme ‘Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld’ is apt as it calls for a multisectoral approach in addressing the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation and creating a world where everyone can access the products, period education and period-friendly infrastructure they need.”
The Country Director appealed to the Lagos State government to sustain the tempo of WASH facilities donated by WaterAid Nigeria and its partners across the state.
“These steps ensure that menstrual health is included in policies, programmes and related budgets so people get the support they need.
It is evident that promoting Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHM) is not only a sanitation matter; it is also an important step towards safeguarding the dignity, health and overall life opportunities of women and girls. Hence, the need for all stakeholders to come together.”
The highpoints of the symposium were dance drama by students of Oregun High School, presentation by Ijegun Community School, on menstrual hygiene and distribution of menstrual hygiene kits to over one hundred secondary school girls.
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