A youth advocacy initiative, The EmpowerHer Project, has urged the Federal, State, and Local Governments to integrate menstrual health education into school curricula across Nigeria. The call was made by the project’s founder, Elizabeth Odukoya, during the unveiling of her book “Periods, Pads and Proud” in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Odukoya emphasized that the lack of menstrual health awareness continues to affect Nigerian schoolgirls. According to her, many girls miss classes, feel ashamed, or lack basic resources to manage their periods.
She said: “The EmpowerHer Project is building a movement for change. We are working with schools and local authorities to integrate menstrual health into education, ensuring that no girl has to miss school or feel ashamed simply because of her period.”
Impact of The EmpowerHer Project
In just over a year, The EmpowerHer Project has:
- Reached over 3,000 girls across 11 schools and communities.
- Distributed more than 3,000 free menstrual products.
- Promoted eco-friendly reusable sanitary pads as a sustainable solution.
Beyond product distribution, the project actively tackles the stigma around menstruation. Through open discussions, health talks, and community engagement, the initiative equips girls with knowledge and confidence to manage their periods with dignity. Parents, teachers, and community leaders are also involved in challenging harmful myths and taboos.
Government’s Role in Menstrual Health Education
Speaking at the event, Dr. Chinedu Nwaodu, Director of Quality Assurance at the Rivers State Ministry of Education, acknowledged that menstrual health topics already exist in the secondary school curriculum. However, she stressed that effective implementation depends largely on teachers and parents.
She noted:
- Teachers should take responsibility in teaching menstrual health comprehensively.
- Parents, especially mothers, must openly discuss menstruation with their daughters.
- Schools and principals must monitor the inclusion of menstrual health education in classrooms.
Dr. Nwaodu also encouraged private school owners to integrate resources like “Periods, Pads and Proud” into their teaching materials.
Breaking Taboos and Empowering Girls
During her remarks, Nwaodu reminded young girls to embrace their identity without shame:
“Be proud of yourselves. Menstrual periods are natural. There is nothing to be ashamed of.”
Expert Review of the Book
A review of the book was presented by Prof. Kaladada Korubo, a Haematology expert at Rivers State University. She described “Periods, Pads and Proud” as a practical and educational guide that explains the female reproductive system, menstruation, and its importance for young girls.
According to her, the book serves as a powerful tool for knowledge:
“Knowledge is power. For that little girl who doesn’t know anything about menstruation, this book provides clarity. Many mothers never discuss menses with their daughters, but this resource fills that gap.”
Why Menstrual Health Education Matters
Menstrual health education is crucial in Nigeria to:
- Reduce school absenteeism among girls.
- End the stigma and silence surrounding menstruation.
- Improve health and hygiene practices among young girls.
- Empower girls with the confidence to participate fully in academics and society.
By making menstrual health education part of the national school curriculum, Nigeria can take a significant step towards gender equality, improved education, and youth empowerment.
