Kogi State First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo has restated her commitment to promoting menstrual hygiene among women and girls in the state.
In her message to commemorate this year’s World Menstrual Hygiene Day, Mrs Ododo noted that it is important to create awareness among women and girls to promote menstrual hygiene and dignity.
The Kogi State First Lady decried the poor menstrual health and hygiene challenge affecting millions of women and girls by being excluded, stigmatized, and shamed because of their periods promising access to quality menstrual products, period education and period-friendly toilets.
She promised to join other stakeholders around world to raise awareness and promote good menstrual health and hygiene beyond the commemoration of the World Menstrual Hygiene Day.
The First Lady also promised access to affordable menstrual products, elimination of period stigma and shame, basic menstruation information for all, and improve access to period-friendly facilities in public spaces.
The First Lady noted that while awareness has grown in the past 10 years, a lot more needs to be done in this regard.
“Today, more and more of us are working towards a #PeriodFriendlyWorld. beyond 28 May.
“Menstrual Hygiene Day is a global problem affecting over 500 million women and girls worldwide. Despite progress, many still face challenges in managing their periods safely and with dignity.
“The day’s theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”, emphasizes the importance of collaboration and inclusivity. We invite everyone to participate in events, share their stories, and advocate for menstrual health and hygiene,” she stated.
She called on well meaning individuals, organizations, and government at all levels to join forces in creating a world where no one is held back because of lack of access to menstrual health and hygiene.