The Gender Educator Initiative has commended the federal government for adopting Nigeria’s first National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management and removing tax on sanitary towels.
GEI described the move as a landmark step that will ease the burden on women and girls, many of whom face stigma, miss school, or resort to unsafe practices due to the high cost of sanitary products.
“This decision signals Nigeria’s recognition of menstrual health as a human rights issue, a public health concern, and a development priority,” the organisation said.
The group further commended the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; with the state commissioners; and other development partners, including WaterAid Nigeria and Population Services International, for their roles in driving the initiative.
GEI’s Founder and Executive Lead, Shafa’atu Suleiman, called for swift policy implementation, grassroots collaboration, and sustained investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, stressing that “menstruation should never be a barrier to opportunities.”
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