To commemorate the World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024, the Hon. Commissioner For Health, represented the Governor of Ondo State Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to celebrate ten years of advocating and campaigning on what the world perceived menstruation in the society.
World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024 is themed "Together for a period friendly world"
While addressing the gathering, the Governor noted that menstruation is a natural process and sign of reproductive health noting that it is not something shameful and utterly private and the stigma and taboo surrounding menstruation must remain a history.
In his words "around the world, millions of adolescent girls and women who experience a menstrual cycle lack access to safe water and sanitation. Without these basic resources, it is impossible for them to manage their menstruation in a hygienic way".
To solve this, the Governor said his administration has initiated "Omi Irorun as part of commitment to provide sustainable access to safe water to ensure that women and girls are at the forefront of positive change and to provide schools with separate toilets for boys and girls that are fully equipped".
The Governor called on Stakeholders to work together to create a world every girl and woman could manage their period with dignity, without fear of judgement exclusion while urging them to amplify their voices to make a difference emphasising that menstruation is a symbol of life, vitality and strength.
In the welcome address of the Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene said "we recognize the significance of May 28th of every year to symbolize the average menstrual cycle of a woman. We remember the past where menstruation was mislabeled as impunity, girls and women were unfairly isolated but today, we choose to reframe the narrative, promoting a culture of inclusivity, understanding and support".
While giving lecture on Menstrual Hygiene, the guest speaker, Dr Olorunfemi Owa called for tax waiver on Menstrual Hygiene materials like sanitary pad, prioritizing menstruation as public health agenda and carry men along in legislation about menstruation.