The Lagos State Government has called for increased investment in menstrual health, describing it as a critical development issue with significant implications for education, economic productivity, gender equality and public health.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs. Kaphayah Sarumi, made the call on Wednesday at the maiden commemoration of International Menstrual Hygiene Day organised by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos.
Speaking on the theme “Advancing Menstrual Health Management in Nigeria,” Sarumi said menstrual health should no longer be treated as a private or isolated issue but as a national development priority.
She noted that access to safe and dignified menstrual care has a direct impact on education outcomes, workforce productivity and overall economic growth.
“When a girl or woman can manage her menstrual cycle with comfort, safety and pride, we see the results immediately in better health outcomes, higher school attendance, increased productivity and a stronger economy,” she said.
The event brought together students, researchers, development practitioners and advocates to discuss the role of menstrual health in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Sarumi said global understanding of menstrual health has evolved beyond hygiene to include access to affordable products, education, supportive policies and social inclusion.
She highlighted Nigeria’s progress in the sector, pointing to the validation of the National Policy on Menstrual Health in August 2025 as evidence of increased government commitment.
According to her, menstrual health management is now recognised as a comprehensive ecosystem that includes access to safe products, public awareness, healthcare support and policy reforms.
She explained that the framework, developed with support from UNICEF, aims to break barriers, promote gender equality and ensure access to safe and affordable menstrual materials.
Sarumi also raised concerns about the environmental impact of menstrual waste, calling for greater investment in sustainable and biodegradable alternatives.
She noted that the average woman generates approximately 150 kilogrammes of non-biodegradable menstrual waste in her lifetime, warning that environmental sustainability must be considered in menstrual health solutions.
She advocated for the adoption of reusable menstrual products such as menstrual cups and period underwear as part of efforts to reduce environmental impact.
According to her, menstrual health contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction, quality education, good health and wellbeing, gender equality and reduced inequalities.
Sarumi reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening menstrual health initiatives through partnerships with development agencies, civil society organisations and the private sector.
“Let us continue to break the culture of silence and ensure that every girl in Nigeria can walk with her head held high every day of the month,” she said.
Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, described menstrual health as a human rights issue linked to dignity, equality and social inclusion.
He noted that cultural stigma and misconceptions about menstruation continue to affect women and girls in many communities.
“Women should not suffer discrimination because of menstruation. They have a right and a voice,” he said.
Also speaking, NIIA Research Fellow, Dr. Esther Idowu, said over two billion people globally menstruate, yet many still face challenges in managing their periods safely and with dignity.
She added that menstrual health is closely tied to progress on education, gender equality and access to water and sanitation.
Participants agreed that improving menstrual health outcomes requires coordinated action among governments, schools, healthcare providers, communities and development partners.
