As the world marks Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) has called on Nigerian girls to embrace menstruation as a normal, healthy, and empowering aspect of womanhood, not something to be hidden or feared. Speaking during a powerful awareness event held at Government Science Secondary School, Karu, Nasarawa State, NCWS emphasized the need to break the silence and stigma around periods, especially among young girls.
The theme of this year’s campaign, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” resonated deeply with the hundreds of students and stakeholders in attendance. Leading the charge was NCWS National President, Mrs. Edna Azura, who, through her representative Mrs. Geraldine Ita-Etuk (First Vice President of NCWS), encouraged young girls to see menstruation as a symbol of strength, not shame.
“Menstruation is not a curse, it’s a sign of health, fertility, and womanhood. When girls are educated about their bodies and equipped with the right resources, they gain the confidence to stay in school, dream bigger, and lead boldly,” Mrs. Azura said.
This impactful initiative was supported by Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), The Amina Agbo Foundation, and other partners committed to menstrual health education. The collaboration underscored a united front in pushing for period equity across Nigeria, especially in underserved communities where myths and misinformation persist.
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School principal Mr. Shimideyi Maikasuwa applauded the event for empowering his students with critical knowledge. He said the open conversations sparked among the girls marked a turning point in their understanding of menstrual health. Echoing this, Ms. Halima Yahaya of PPFN reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to providing menstrual hygiene education and support for adolescent girls and women.
Also lending her voice was Mrs. Njoku Benedicta, a local school owner, who stressed the urgent need for more menstrual hygiene campaigns, particularly in private and rural schools where access to period education remains limited. She warned that ignorance about menstruation continues to cause school absenteeism, low self-esteem, and long-term educational setbacks for many girls.
Perhaps the most powerful message came from the students themselves. Blessing Godwin, a student at the school, spoke with newfound confidence after the session: “I learned so much today. Girls shouldn’t feel ashamed to talk about menstruation; we should be confident about it. It’s natural and nothing to hide.”
The event left students inspired, empowered, and ready to educate others in their communities. With this kind of advocacy, the NCWS and its partners are laying the foundation for a future where period stigma becomes a thing of the past and every girl has the knowledge, dignity, and support to manage her menstrual health with pride.
