Over 500 million people worldwide lack access to safe menstrual products, menstrual education, and Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation (WASH) facilities needed to manage their periods with dignity. This issue is known as period poverty, and in Nigeria, it keeps many girls out of school during their periods, making it a major barrier to quality education. However, the problem is more than this.

The culture of silence and societal taboos surrounding menstruation deepen the challenges menstruating girls face. In many Nigerian communities, menstruation is viewed as shameful, with widespread myths and misconceptions, leading to menstrual stigma. This stigma results in the exclusion of women and girls from everyday activities, making them feel embarrassed and isolated, and denying them their fundamental rights to dignity.

The silence also prevents open conversations about menstruation, leaving girls often deprived of proper menstrual education and unprepared to manage their periods safely and hygienically. Without access to accurate information, menstrual products, and supportive environments, many girls are forced to either make unsafe menstrual choices, which can lead to health complications, or miss school, further limiting their opportunities and future success.

At The EME Foundation, we are committed to addressing the multidimensional challenges of menstrual inequity. We aim to increase access to safe and sustainable menstrual products, provide inclusive menstrual health education, and break the stigma surrounding menstruation. By advocating for policy changes, engaging communities, and empowering girls with the resources and knowledge they need, we are working to ensure that every girl can manage her period with dignity, stay in school, and achieve her full potential.