FIC Report (Edo State) – The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has called on young girls to remain focused, determined, and committed to excellence in all their pursuits, while embracing values that promote responsible womanhood and societal development.
Mrs. Anani made the call during an awareness programme held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day and the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, both globally observed on May 28.
The event, organised in collaboration with the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), focused on promoting menstrual hygiene awareness, women’s health advocacy, and the empowerment of young Girls across Edo State.
Addressing participants at the programme, Mrs. Anani encouraged young girls to remain disciplined, passionate, and confident in pursuing their dreams, stressing that they have vital roles to play in shaping the future of Society.
According to her, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo remains committed to creating equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of gender or background, to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
“You must ensure your voices are heard. You are the leaders of tomorrow; therefore, continue to strive for excellence in all that you do. Be focused, disciplined, and passionate about your dreams,” she charged.
Speaking on the importance of menstrual hygiene and women’s health, the First Lady’s Coordinator noted that the wellbeing of women and girls deserves continuous attention at every stage of life, including puberty, menstruation, childbirth, and menopause.
She expressed concern over the persistent stigma, discrimination, and challenges faced by many girls due to menstruation, describing period poverty as a major issue that requires urgent collective action and sustained public enlightenment.
“Menstrual hygiene is very important. No girl should be ashamed or deprived of opportunities because of her menstrual cycle. We must continue to educate, support, and empower young girls while creating more awareness to curb period poverty,” she stated.
Mrs. Anani further stressed the need for stakeholders, institutions, and community leaders to intensify campaigns aimed at promoting menstrual health education and access to sanitary products for girls and women, particularly in underserved communities.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Welfare and Social of the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), South-South Zone, Comrade Johnson Easter, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to championing the welfare, rights, and development of female students within and outside Edo State.
She explained that the outreach programme, which targeted Students in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions, formed part of activities lined up to commemorate the International Day of Action for Women’s Health.
Comrade Easter appealed for sustained collaboration among Government Agencies, Organisations, and development partners to ensure the success of initiatives geared towards improving the Health, Education, and Empowerment of Girls and Women in the Society.
The programme featured sensitisation sessions on Menstrual Hygiene Management, Women’s Health Education, and Advocacy for improved support systems for young Girls.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO FIC Benin
May 22nd, 2026
