Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, Evelyn Mere, has called for urgent action to promote menstrual health equity in Nigeria.
She made the call in a statement issued on Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, observed on Wednesday, May 28, in Abuja, under the theme: “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.”
Mere emphasised that menstrual health was a human right, not a privilege, and condemned the continued stigma and barriers menstruating girls and women faced across the country.
“It is unacceptable that menstruation continues to limit the potential of girls and women in Nigeria.
“No one should miss school, feel ashamed, or be unsafe simply because they are menstruating.
“A period-friendly world is one where dignity, access, and rights are protected for everyone, regardless of age, location, or income,” she said.
She noted that WaterAid Nigeria was actively implementing menstrual health and hygiene interventions, which included the provision of WASH facilities in schools, creation of hygiene clubs, production and distribution of reusable pads, and community sensitisation programmes.
According to her, these initiatives aim to create supportive environments where menstruation is normalised and no individual is forced to choose between managing their period and living with dignity.
Mere also renewed WaterAid Nigeria’s call for menstrual health to be fully integrated into national and sub-national policies on WASH, health, gender, and education.
She urged stakeholders to: “Prioritise inclusive and climate-resilient WASH facilities in schools and public spaces.
“Challenge menstrual stigma through community engagement and advocacy.
“Invest in behaviour change and education to dismantle harmful social norms.”
Mere ended by urging the public, policymakers, and partners to join the movement for a world where no one would be held back by their period.