RismadarVoice Reporters
May 28, 2026
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Nonye Soludo, has called for improved menstrual hygiene management and an end to stigma, discrimination, and harmful cultural practices against menstruating girls and women.
She appealed on Thursday during an event marking World Menstrual Hygiene Day held at the Light House in Awka, where she addressed more than 2,000 secondary school students from across the state.
Soludo emphasised that menstruation is a natural biological process and should not be treated as a taboo or source of shame.
“Menstruation is a natural part of life. It is not a curse. It is not taboo. It is not something any girl should be ashamed of,” she said.
She lamented that many girls still face stigma, isolation, and restrictions during their menstrual cycle due to misinformation and cultural misconceptions, adding that such practices negatively affect their confidence and education.
As part of her intervention efforts, Soludo said her NGO, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, has established 350 sanitary pad banks in secondary schools across the state to ensure girls have consistent access to menstrual hygiene products.
According to her, the initiative has helped reduce absenteeism, boost confidence among students, and improve overall hygiene in schools.
She also disclosed that more than 25,000 packs of sanitary pads have already been distributed through the programme.
Soludo urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to promote open conversations around menstruation and support girls with proper education and care.
“We believe that good health is not a luxury, it is a right,” she added.
The First Lady further highlighted broader health initiatives under her organisation, noting that the programme also promotes nutrition, environmental cleanliness, and preventive healthcare across communities in Anambra State.
