NGO seeks menstrual health education for girls in underserved communities

By Olugbenga Ige

A Nonprofit organisation, NOLA Africa, has underscored the need for improved access to menstrual health education and reproductive health awareness for adolescent girls in underserved communities.

The organisation made the call during its Project Lafiya outreach programme held in the Isefun community of Lagos to mark World Menstrual Hygiene Day on Wednesday.

In a statement on Thursday, the organisation said the initiative reached more than 250 teenage girls through educational sessions on menstrual hygiene, emotional well-being, puberty, personal safety, and sexual and reproductive health rights.

Speaking at the event, the founder of the organisation, Tomiwa Nihinlola, said many young girls still lack access to accurate health information due to the stigma surrounding discussions on menstruation and reproductive health.

According to her, the outreach was designed to create a safe and practical environment where girls could ask questions freely and receive accurate information from trained facilitators.

“Project Lafiya was created because we believe every girl deserves access to accurate health information, dignity, and a safe space to ask questions without fear or shame.

“For many girls, conversations around menstrual and reproductive health are still surrounded by silence and stigma. We wanted to help change that in a way that feels practical, relatable, and community-driven,” she said

She added that the initiative goes beyond health education.

“We are not just talking about health education. We are talking about confidence, self-worth, and helping young girls feel informed enough to make safer decisions about their lives and futures. The response from the girls reminded us how important these conversations truly are,” she said.

Nihinlola further noted that access to information and support systems remains critical to empowering girls and expanding their opportunities.

“At NOLA Africa, we believe social impact starts with access. When girls have the right information, support systems, and opportunities to learn in safe environments, it changes how they see themselves and what they believe is possible for their future,” she said.

As part of the outreach, the organisation distributed reusable sanitary pads and menstrual record booklets to participants to support proper hygiene management and help them better understand their menstrual cycles.

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The organisation said the programme forms part of its broader efforts to empower women and girls in vulnerable communities through education, mentorship, and access to essential resources.

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