Saving the Girl Child: NGO Advocates Access to Menstrual Health Education
A child-focused advocacy group, NOLA Africa, has called for greater access to menstrual health education and reproductive health information for adolescent girls, stressing that knowledge and support are essential to protecting children from health risks, exploitation and harmful social stigma.
The organisation made the appeal during its Project Lafiya outreach programme held in the Isefun community of Lagos to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day. The initiative reached more than 250 teenage girls through educational sessions on menstrual hygiene, puberty, emotional well-being, personal safety, and sexual and reproductive health rights.
Child protection experts note that limited access to accurate information about menstruation and reproductive health can leave girls vulnerable to misinformation, discrimination, school absenteeism and abuse. They argue that creating safe spaces where girls can ask questions and receive reliable guidance is critical to safeguarding their wellbeing and development.
Speaking during the programme, NOLA Africa founder, Tomiwa Nihinlola, said many girls continue to face barriers to information because discussions around menstruation and reproductive health remain shrouded in stigma and silence.
She explained that the outreach was designed to provide a supportive environment where girls could learn, build confidence and make informed decisions about their health and future.
According to her, empowering girls with accurate information goes beyond health education, helping them develop self-worth, confidence and the ability to navigate challenges safely.
As part of the intervention, participants received reusable sanitary pads and menstrual record booklets to support proper hygiene management and menstrual health tracking.
The organization said the programme aligns with its broader mission to promote the rights, safety and empowerment of girls through education, mentorship and access to essential resources.
