UNICEF Encourages Girls to Maintain Menstrual Hygiene 

By Friday Obande

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged girls to maintain menstrual hygiene, as it is vital for sustainability of their personal health, as well as the society in general.

Social and Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF, Mrs Aderonke Akinwole, on the topic during an event on Wednesday, organised in collaboration with the Nigeria Girls’ Guild and Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.

The event themed ‘Together for a Period Friendly World’, was held to mark the 2025 “Menstrual Hygiene Day” (MHDay) and was attended by students from both public and private schools across Lagos.

Akinwole said, “When a girl begins menstruation, it should be celebrated. It signifies her transition into womanhood and her ability to sustain life.

“They should be proud, and seek accurate, helpful information to remain safe, clean, and healthy during their period.

Major emphasis was laid on the fact that girls must not feel ashamed, as menstruation is a natural part of womanhood and a symbol of female dignity.

She urged the state government to increase sensitisation efforts and include menstrual hygiene education in school curricula, religious settings, and community platforms.

Akinwole also warned against stigmatisation, especially from boys, and called for boys to be educated to respect menstruation as part of girls’ lives.

“Girls should understand the menstrual cycle even before it starts. This should be part of health education in schools, churches, mosques, and communities,” she said.

She explained that girls need awareness on menstrual hygiene management and should know how to prepare for their periods in a healthy, informed way.

In an applause, Mrs Honfor Adesola, Director of Education at Lagos State Primary Education Board, commended UNICEF’s support in promoting menstrual hygiene and addressing issues affecting girls.

Adesola highlighted that maintaining menstrual hygiene is vital in preventing infections and ensuring comfort throughout the menstrual cycle.

She explained at that the event also helped to raise awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine available free in health centres across Lagos.

“We’re here to mark MHDay and to engage girls on HPV awareness. The state government has provided the vaccine, and sensitisation must continue,” she explained.

“Girls are hereby, advised to discuss the HPV vaccine with their parents to gain consent, ensuring protection against cervical cancer.

“The vaccine is safe, effective, and accessible in state facilities for girls aged nine to fourteen, but many have not yet been vaccinated,” she emphasised.

Meanwhile, Ethagah Divine, Head Girl of New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Surulere, called on NGOs to provide sanitary pads for girls, as she further called for more campaigns and rallies to distribute free menstrual products, like UNICEF did, to promote hygiene and dignity during menstruation.