The First Lady of Kogi State, Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed her commitment to championing the cause of menstrual hygiene and promoting a #PeriodFriendlyWorld for the women and girls of Kogi State.<\/p>\n
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Ododo gave the assurance in Lokoja as part of activities to mark the 2024 Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration organised by Heal for Africa Initiative (HFAI), tagged:\u201d#PeriodFriendlyWorld\u201d.<\/p>\n
May 28, 2024, marks the celebration of the 10th edition of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global initiative dedicated to promoting awareness and education about menstrual hygiene.<\/p>\n
Commending the Founder of HFAI, Kelechi Okoro for the NGO activities in Kogi State, the Kogi first lady pledged her unwavering support for the initiative and outlined her plans to improve menstrual hygiene and other sexual and reproductive health initiatives in the state, as she emphasized the importance of breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation.<\/p>\n
\u201cMenstruation should never be a barrier to education, health, or personal growth. As a mother and a leader, I am committed to ensuring that every girl and woman in Kogi State can manage their menstruation with dignity and confidence,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Ododo equally admonished parents to prioritize menstrual hygiene education for their daughters.<\/p>\n
\u201cParents play a crucial role in their children\u2019s development. It is essential to provide your girl child with accurate information and support about menstruation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis helps them understand their bodies and manage their menstrual health effectively. Let us create an open and supportive environment where our daughters feel comfortable discussing their menstrual needs,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Ododo further encouraged the young girls to know that menstruation remained a natural part of growing up.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo every young girl, know that menstruation is a natural part of growing up. Do not let it hold you back from pursuing your dreams.<\/p>\n
\u201cEducate yourself, take care of your health, and seek support when needed. My office is committed to advancing the health and rights of the girl child.\u201d<\/p>\n
Also speaking, Folasade Ayoade Arike, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government (SSG), reiterated Her Excellency\u2019s call on other female leaders to support the initiative, as she urged government officials and stakeholders to join the movement for menstrual hygiene sensitization, especially in schools and underserved communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe must work together to ensure that all girls have access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and facilities.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur collective efforts can break down barriers and create a world where menstruation is not a hindrance but a celebrated aspect of life<\/p>\n
She implored other women leaders to take concrete steps to build a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.<\/p>\n
Fatimah Momoh, the Commissioner for Women\u2019s Affairs, is committed to championing the sexual and reproductive health of women and girls in Kogi State. She emphasized that the focus on women\u2019s and girls\u2019 health must extend beyond the Menstrual Hygiene Day commemoration.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is not just about today; it is about ensuring a brighter, healthier future for our girls. The Ministry of Women Affairs will provide the necessary support to promote the #PayAttentionToHer project.\u201d<\/p>\n
I urge everyone to join us in this vital cause\u201d.<\/p>\n
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