On February 15, 2025, we witnessed a groundbreaking moment in the fight for menstrual hygiene awareness as Dr. Valda Martins, a lecturer in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, launched her book on menstrual hygiene. The event, held in Minna, was more than just a book launch—it was a bold step toward dismantling myths, ending stigma, and empowering young girls with the knowledge they deserve.
Why This Book Matters
In her heartfelt address, Dr. Martins highlighted a pressing reality—many girls still miss school, battle stigma, and lack essential knowledge about their bodies. This discovery came after engaging with over 6,000 girls through school outreaches and interactive sessions.
“Growing up as a young girl with three elder sisters, I was never taught anything about menstruation. So, the day my first period arrived, I trembled in fear, convinced it was an issue of blood (Bible story). That trauma, a story detailed in this book, became my inspiration, so I vowed that no girl I come across would feel such shame or confusion,” Dr. Martins shared.
This deeply personal experience became the driving force behind her mission. For the past five years—two years alone and three with an incredible team at Succeeding Against All Odds (SAAO) Initiative—she has worked tirelessly to educate and uplift young girls. Through school outreaches in Minna, Bwari Area Council in the FCT, and beyond, the SAAO Initiative has been on the frontline of menstrual hygiene awareness. More recently, the initiative has expanded to focus on mental health, recognizing the link between poor menstrual hygiene and a girl’s overall well-being.
A Call to Action
At the launch, Dr. Martins made a passionate appeal to the government, organizations, and individuals to ensure that menstrual hygiene products and education are accessible to every girl. Addressing these challenges in schools will not only improve school attendance but also eliminate the stigma and shame that many girls experience.
She further emphasized that promoting menstrual hygiene is a matter of gender equity. “Ensuring clean water and sanitation facilities in schools and workplaces supports effective menstrual hygiene management. As the UN notes: Menstrual health is not a luxury. It is a human right. Hence, every child has the right to menstrual hygiene education and a copy of this menstrual hygiene book.”
The Bigger Picture
This mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
At SAAO Initiative, we believe that knowledge is power. By equipping girls with the right information and ensuring access to menstrual hygiene products, we can break the silence surrounding menstruation and create a future where no girl feels ashamed or left behind.
What’s Next?
With the launch of this book, the work doesn’t stop here. We remain committed to reaching more schools, engaging more girls, and advocating for menstrual health policies. But we can’t do it alone. Join us in this movement—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness.
Together, we can ensure that every girl has the dignity, confidence, and support she deserves.
For more updates on our projects and how you can get involved, follow us on our social media platforms or visit our website.
