SPECIAL ADVISER TO THE GOVERNOR ON SDGs, SALLY SULEIMAN, TAKES THE FIGHT AGAINST PERIOD POVERTY AND MENSTRUAL STIGMA TO THE GRASSROOTS AS EDO STATE FLAGS OFF 2026 MENSTRUAL HYGIENE OUTREACH TO PROTECT THE DIGNITY, HEALTH, AND FUTURE OF THE GIRL CHILD

In a bold demonstration of commitment to the health, dignity, and empowerment of the girl child, the Edo State Government, through the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), officially flagged off this year’s Menstrual Hygiene Outreach Programme on May 26th at Emotan College, an all-girls institution in Benin City.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs, Sally Suleiman, goes beyond the distribution of sanitary products. It focuses strongly on awareness creation, education, advocacy, and breaking the age-long silence and stigma surrounding menstrual hygiene among young girls.

The outreach programme created a safe and engaging environment where students openly discussed issues relating to menstrual health, self-esteem, hygiene, and personal development. The impactful conversations served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to continuously create safe spaces where girls can learn freely, speak confidently, and grow with dignity without shame or discrimination.

Speaking through the outreach activities, Sally Suleiman reaffirmed her commitment to promoting policies and programmes that align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those centered on health, gender equality, education, and social inclusion.

Observers and stakeholders have continued to commend the proactive leadership style of the Special Adviser, describing her as one of the most effective and result-driven appointees in the current administration. Her consistency in community engagement, youth development, women empowerment, and social impact initiatives has continued to distinguish her as a passionate advocate for sustainable human development in Edo State.

At a time when many young girls still struggle with period poverty, social stigma, and lack of menstrual education, this intervention stands as a bold statement that the dignity and wellbeing of the girl child must remain a priority.

The campaign also reinforces the broader message that menstruation is natural and should never be a source of shame, exclusion, or embarrassment for any girl.

Indeed, the movement to End Period Shame is gaining stronger momentum in Edo State, and with committed leadership and sustained advocacy, a more period-friendly society is not only possible but achievable.

#MenstrualHygieneDay

#PeriodFriendlyWorld

#EdoSDGs

#SallySuleiman

#EndPeriodShame