News Agency of Nigeria
Period poverty: UNICEF leads advocacy on menstrual health management in Oyo
Health

Period poverty: UNICEF leads advocacy on menstrual health management in Oyo

 

 

 

 

By Olatunde Ajayi

According to the the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), inadequate access to resources has continued to undermine ability of girls and women to manage their menstruation healthily and respectfully.

The UNICEF Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Specialist, Mr Monday Johnson, stated this at a media dialogue organised by UNICEF in collaboration with Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation on Thursday in Ibadan.

He noted that a greater percentage of women often faced stigmatisation, isolation and other forms of rights violations while observing menstrual period.

Menstrual Hygiene Day, being observed every May 28, is dedicated to promoting better understanding about menstruation, raise awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene and to break down the existing social taboos associated with menstruation.

The theme for 2025 celebration is “Together for a Period Friendly World.”

The UNICEF specialist affirmed that the theme shared the vision of a world where every woman could manage their menstruation with dignity, confidence, and safety.

He called for integration of comprehensive menstrual education into school curricula and community programmes to dispel myths and normalise conversations about menstruation.

According to him, ensuring that menstrual products are accessible and affordable is a fundamental right of women and girls.

“Governments, NGOs, and private sectors must collaborate to provide free or subsidised menstrual products to those in need.

“By educating our girls and even our boys, we foster a supportive environment where menstruation is understood and respected.

“Schools, workplaces, and public spaces must be equipped with clean and adequate water supply and disposal options.

“Some schools lack adequate water, sanitation and hygiene facilities needed by girls and female teachers to manage menstruation,” Johnson said.

He also called on parents especially fathers to support their girl child during menstruation, noting that research had shown that voices of fathers in supporting girls during menstruation have been very low.

“We need to have voices of parents, boys, government and NGOs supporting girls during menstruation against all taboos and myths about menstruation,” he said.

Similarly, UNICEF’s Social Behavioral Specialist, Mrs Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, charged community leaders and influencers to actively involved in promoting menstrual health education.

This, she said, could be achieved through supportive networks that would ensure that girl or woman did not feel isolated or ashamed because of their menstrual period.

“We need to break silence, menstruation should not be seen as a taboo topic. We need to create an open dialogue where people feel comfortable discussing their menstrual health without fear of ridicule or shame,”she said.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Dotun Oyelade, commended UNICEF for championing campaign for menstrual hygiene in Nigeria.

He expressed renewed commitment of Gov. Seyi Makinde’s led administration to all UNICEF activities in Oyo state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Vivian Ihechu

LASIEC pledges inclusive, credible LG polls
Politics

LASIEC pledges inclusive, credible LG polls

 

By Adeyemi Adeleye

 

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has pledged to conduct an inclusive, hitch-free local government election that all would be proud of.

 

LASIEC’s Chairman, Justice Omobolanle Okikiolu-Ighile, made the promise on Tuesday at a forum organised by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) in Lagos.

 

The event was held ahead of the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12 in Lagos State.

 

The theme of the event was ‘Enhancing Credible and Inclusive Local Government Elections in Lagos State’.

 

“Democracy thrives when it is inclusive, participatory and truly reflects the diversity of society.

“At LASIEC, we firmly believe no one should be left behind—and no one will be,” Okikiolu-Ighile stated.

 

She stressed that the right to vote and be voted for is a constitutional and fundamental human right.

 

“LASIEC is the body responsible for conducting local government elections in Lagos and is fully committed to inclusivity,” she said.

 

She emphasised that all eligible citizens must have the opportunity to participate, regardless of gender, ethnicity or socio-economic background.

 

According to her, trust and public confidence are essential to achieving free, fair and credible elections.

 

She added that such trust could only be built through active involvement of stakeholders like CCD and others.

 

“It’s about removing barriers and ensuring everyone is included in the democratic process,” she reiterated.

 

Okikiolu-Ighile said LASIEC was fully prepared for the July 12 elections, expecting voters to turn out in large numbers.

 

“The commission is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a transparent, inclusive and conclusive election process,” she noted.

 

She revealed LASIEC distributed application forms free to women, youths and persons with disabilities (PwDs) to encourage participation.

Okikiolu-Ighile reaffirmed LASIEC’s commitment to delivering election that is free, fair, credible and conclusive.

“We will maintain strong collaboration with stakeholders and create equal access across the political field,” she assured.

 

She added LASIEC would uphold public confidence by ensuring transparency throughout the electoral process.

 

She urged stakeholders to help educate and sensitise members on their voting rights and participation.

The LASIEC chair also assured residents of maximum security for all voters and candidates during the polls.

She confirmed that assistive materials — such as magnifying glasses and braille — would be provided at all voting centres.

CCD Programme Officer, Mrs Christiana Njoku, highlighted the importance of credible, inclusive electioneering processes.

Njoku praised LASIEC’s efforts in supporting inclusion, particularly for persons with disabilities.

She, however, called on LASIEC to intensify efforts by providing braille, interpreters and other assistive tools.

She stressed the need for a conducive environment to enable all PwD clusters to vote on July 12. (NAN)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Committee submits audit report on Accelerated Gas Development Projects
General News

Committee submits audit report on Accelerated Gas Development Projects

 

By Taiye Agbaje

The Legal Audit Committee on Associated Gas Development Projects and Arbitration Matters has handed its final report to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.

The committee, chaired by Mr Olasupo Shasore, SAN, was tasked with auditing agreements and memoranda of understanding (MOUs) linked to Nigeria’s accelerated gas development efforts.

Shasore, the senior partner at African Law Practice (ALP) NG & Co, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the project was inaugurated in November 2024 and the committee was mandated to align existing contracts with the Nigerian Gas Master Plan and to assess the extent of commercial risk Nigeria had been exposed to in past dealings.

Speaking during the presentation at the Ministry of Justice in Abuja, Shasore said that the report offered a comprehensive review of critical gas agreements and arbitration cases.

He emphasised the need for structured risk assessment in contracts involving international stakeholders, pointing to past lapses that had left Nigeria vulnerable in commercial disputes.

He said among the report’s key recommendations was the creation of a legal risk matrix to preempt disputes and enhance Nigeria’s bargaining power in high-stakes deals.

According to him, the project also calls for institutional reforms in contract management and dispute resolution, particularly in sectors involving substantial foreign investment.

“The committee’s work covered not only concluded arbitration cases but also examined how previous missteps had translated into significant financial liabilities for the country.

“By identifying legal and procedural gaps, the report aims to protect national interests in future arbitrations and gas development negotiations,” Shasore said,

Fagbemi, while receiving the report, commended the committee’s effort, describing it as a bold step towards reinforcing Nigeria’s legal and economic resilience in the global gas sector.

“This report provides a blueprint for strengthening our contractual frameworks and will guide future engagements,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee, made up of legal and commercial experts, worked intensively for over six months to produce what it was described as a “forward-looking document”.

NAN reports that on Nov. 11,2024, Fagbemi inaugurated the committee to audit agreements Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) on AGDPs.

The move is part of efforts at preventing a repeat of the nation’s most unpleasant experience in the P&ID case which originated from one of such AGDPs.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FG to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage
Science & Tech

FG to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage

 

 

 

 

By Jessica Dogo

 

The Federal Government says  it plans to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage to underserved communities, with a focus to bridge digital divide and promote inclusive development in the country.

 

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr Bosun Tijani, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja when he unveiled a pilot project in Ibwa 2 community, situated at Gwagwalada, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

 

Tijani hinted that President Bola Tinubu had directed that the ministry should invest 7,000 in giving Nigerians access to network.

 

He noted that there were about 20 million rural dwellers who do not have access to benefit from such facilities.

 

“Nigeria has decided to invest 7,000 of these equipment in healthcare.

 

“There are about 20 million people who cannot benefit from what we that live in the city or those who are nearer to the city are currently enjoying.

 

“Out of that 20 million people over 80 per cent of them are from the northern part of Nigeria.

 

“This is why Mr President has demanded that we must put money into ensuring that this opportunity is not only available to those in the urban area but every part of the north must be covered with this equipment.

 

“So that we can give this opportunity to our people regardless of where they find themselves.”

 

He said that the project, in collaboration with Globacom Nigeria and Huawei Technologies Nigeria, would provide different digital services to over 12,000 residents of the community, and those within its environs.

 

He explained that the 7,000 digital hospitals and schools would provide services for 80 per cent of the 20 million unserved who were from northern states.

 

The minister in test running the digital facilities had online conversations with a medical doctor in Abuja and a teacher in Lagos.

 

He assured that the 7,000 projects would be delivered by the end of the year.

 

According to him, 125 smart phones had been provided to the community through the village Head to be used for services provided by the facility with free WiFi.

 

Earlier, the Managing Director of Huawei Technologies Nigeria, Terrens Wu expressed delight over the collaboration, saying that it would lead to rural transformation and economic empowerment of rural dwellers.

 

Mr Wu was optimistic that the project  would deepen financial inclusion and boost economic activities.

 

He also expressed the commitment of Huawei to rural and urban transformation in Nigeria.

 

“Huawei has the technology to shape the ways rural areas are carried along in the plan for digital transformation and literacy in the country,” he said.

 

The Manager Globacom Nigeria Northern Region, Mr Kassim Kaka emphasised the company’s commitment to ventures that would improve digital literacy and deepen inclusion in the country.

 

The Village Head of Ibwa 2 Community, Abubakar Bamaiyi, appreciated the government for the projects, saying in the past, government officials would visit the community and make promises, but nothing would follow.

 

“In the past government officials would come and make promises but they end up doing nothing. But this time around you people came and within this short period you have delivered.

 

“Our children can even learn from their beds. And we can access medical care through this digital hospital.

 

“The project has revived the peoples confidence in the present administration, and the villagers will take advantage of the projects to improve their living standards and businesses,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Yakubu Uba

NATOP urges collaboration among stakeholders to boost local tourism
Culture & Tourism

NATOP urges collaboration among stakeholders to boost local tourism

 

By Joan Odafe

The President of Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, has called on government agencies, industry players and the media to increase efforts in promoting the nation’s untapped tourism potential.

 

This, she said, would attract both local and international tourists.

 

Mustapha made the call during a Roundtable Meeting with the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Travel (ANJET) on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was aimed at discussing how Nigeria’s local destinations sites can be promoted to boost tourism.

 

Mustapha, who is also the Managing Director of Grand Express Tour Centre (GET Centre), said years of grassroots advocacy by the operators was beginning to yield results.

 

According to her, NATOP has focused on identifying new tourism sites across the country that can be promoted globally.

 

“People are beginning to see those things we are trying to put out there,” she said.

 

She said the association had identified some destination sites in Ondo State.

 

Mustapha disclosed that the association planned to explore the sites, with stakeholders, during the NATOP Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will hold in July in the state.

 

Some of the sites include Idanre Hills, Araromi Beach, Nibanola Farms, a 500-acre land with a hotel overlooking a lake, and La Campagne Tropicana Hills.

 

“We went to do a familiarisation trip; we went around to see some of the venues where we are going to be using.

 

“We want to identify some products, and tell the people in charge to see how they can improve it; how they can make it very habitable for us to sell.

 

“It’s a mind-blowing thing for me that we can have this kind of thing.

 

“We had breakfast on a very beautiful hill on top of the mountain. It’s just amazing,” she said.

 

Mustapha, however noted that the operators had found some challenges while promoting tourism destinations.

 

Some of the challenges, she said, included lack of innovation, inflation, multiple taxation, security among others.

 

She urged the government to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that the products are sold.

 

She further urged Nigerians to patronise the sites, and not wait for only holidays to travel.

 

Also, the General Secretary of NATOP, Otunba Michael Balogun, said collaboration among stakeholders in the industry was very important because tourism could not thrive in isolation.

 

Balogun, who is also the Chief Operating Officer of Tour2Nigeria, said apart from collaboration, there was also a need to change the narrative put out about the nation.

 

Decrying the negative narratives about the nation, and citing countries such as U.S. and South Africa, Balogun said their crime rates was not projected in the media as it is.

 

He said Africa should no longer be regarded as just a continent but a voice, vision and heritage that needed to be sold.

 

According the him, a lot of development is ongoing in the country that is not projected to the public.

 

“If it’s about infrastructure, we travel these roads, we see these things.

 

“The last time we went to Ondo,there was no construction going on, just for us to get on it again, a new road was being built.

 

“Which is a good thing because now the government is working,” he said.

 

He urged the government, particularly the media, to collaborate with stakeholders to sell Nigeria.

 

He further urged stakeholders, including hotels and resorts owners, airlines, and logistics companies, to give discounts to tour operators in order to reduce the cost of tour packages for tourists.

 

The President of ANJET, Mr Okorie Uguru, commended NATOP for its passion, efforts and sacrifice in pushing the narrative of Nigeria’s assets and potential.

 

He pledged the support of ANJET to echo the voice of operators by pushing positive narratives, both locally and internationally.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Bold tax reforms already yielding results – Tinubu
General News

Bold tax reforms already yielding results – Tinubu

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said one of his administration’s most impactful achievements was its bold tax reform agenda, which had started yielding results.

 

The President said this in a statement to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

 

He said by the end of 2024, the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10 per cent to over 13.5 per cent, a remarkable leap in just one year.

 

He said this was a result of deliberate improvement in tax administration and policies designed to make the tax system fairer, more efficient and more growth-oriented.

 

“We are eliminating the burden of multiple taxation, making it easier for small businesses to grow and join the formal economy. The tax reforms will protect low-income households and support workers by expanding their disposable income.

 

“Essential goods and services such as food, education, and healthcare will now attract 0 per cent VAT. Rent, public transportation, and renewable energy will be fully exempted from VAT to reduce household costs further.

 

“We are ending the era of wasteful and opaque tax waivers. Instead, we have introduced targeted and transparent incentives supporting high-impact manufacturing, technology, and agriculture sectors,” said Tinubu.

 

He added that these reforms were not just about revenue but about stimulating inclusive economic growth.

 

For instance, he said, there was a deliberate focus on youths, who a friendlier tax environment for digital jobs and remote work would empower.

 

He said through export incentives, Nigerian businesses would be able to compete globally.

 

Tinubu added that his administration’s National Single Window project has streamlined international trade, reduced delays, and enhanced Nigeria’s competitiveness.

 

“To promote fairness and accountability, we are establishing a Tax Ombudsman, an independent institution that will protect vulnerable taxpayers and ensure the system works for everyone, especially small businesses.

 

“Most importantly, we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable future by introducing a new national fiscal policy.

 

”This strategic framework will guide our approach to fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and disciplined spending.

 

“These reforms are designed to reduce the cost of living, promote economic justice, and build a business-friendly economy that attracts investment and supports every Nigerian.

 

“Together, we are creating a system where prosperity is shared, and no one is left behind,” the President stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

EDited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Tinubu restates commitment to security, safety of Nigerians
General News

Tinubu restates commitment to security, safety of Nigerians

 

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu says his administration is committed to the security and safety of Nigerians.

 

The president said this in a statement on Thursday to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

 

“Without a responsive and reliable national security infrastructure that can protect lives and properties, our economy will not perform optimally, and those who seek to harm us will impair and disrupt our way of life.

 

“For our government, protecting our people and their peaceful way of life is the utmost priority,” said Tinubu.

 

He stated that his administration had improved collaboration among security agencies, increased intelligence-driven operations, and better ensured the welfare of the armed forces and security personnel.

 

“I use this opportunity to salute the courage and everyday sacrifice of our service men and women.

 

“We may not always witness the tremendous efforts they make to keep us safe, but we benefit every day from the results of their dedication.

 

“Even if we do not thank them often enough, they willingly face danger so we can go about our lives freely and without fear.

 

“Our military, police, and intelligence agencies are committed to always responding to emerging security threats and new challenges because it is the patriotic duty they owe a grateful nation,” the president stated.

 

He said amid the new security challenges, he could report some successes.

 

Tinubu said in some areas of the North-West hitherto under the control of bandits, the gallant armed forces had restored order, reducing and eliminating threats to lives and livelihoods.

 

With the success achieved, he said, farmers were back tilling the land, and that highways, hitherto dangerous for travellers, had become safer.

 

“Our security agencies have succeeded many times in rescuing the abducted citizens from the hands of their tormentors.

 

“I promise you, we shall remain vigilant, as I told security chiefs during the last meeting to up their game and collaborate to end this plague of evil men.

 

“Every Nigerian deserves to live without fear,” the president reassured. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

We’ve made progress in socio-economic devt. – Tinubu
General News

We’ve made progress in socio-economic devt. – Tinubu

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said his administration had made progress in returning the country to the path of socio-economic development.

 

The President said this in a statement in Abuja to mark the second anniversary of his administration.

 

“When we embarked on this journey, propelled by a burst of hope and abiding faith in Nigeria’s unity and progress, I made a pledge before God and fellow countrymen and women to confront Nigeria’s challenges head-on.

 

“We have breathed new life into the Solid Minerals sector as part of our efforts to diversify the economy.

 

“Revenue has increased phenomenally, and investors are setting up processing plants as the sector dumps the old pit-to-port policy and embraces a new value-added policy,” said Tinubu.

 

He stated that his administration had also repositioned the health sector in spite of all odds.

 

“Over 1,000 Primary Health Centres are being revitalised nationwide. An additional 5,500 PHCs are being upgraded under our Renewed Hope Health Agenda.

 

“We are establishing six new cancer treatment centres. Three are ready. We offer free dialysis services in pilot tertiary hospitals and subsidise the service in others.

 

“Under the Presidential Maternal Health Initiative, over 4,000 women have undergone free caesarean sections. Lastly, we have expanded Health Insurance Coverage from 16 million to 20 million within two years,” he said.

 

The President said his government had also prioritised human capital development as a central pillar of national development strategy.

 

“To this end, we have significantly expanded access to quality education through infrastructure investments and the student loan scheme to support indigent students in tertiary institutions.

 

“Through the Renewed Hope Health initiative, our administration has begun equipping health facilities and deploying skilled personnel to unserved areas. We are also strengthening our response to public health threats and implementing targeted social investment schemes,” he said.

 

According to the President, his administration’s youth empowerment initiatives include access to funds, skill development, and creating employment opportunities.

 

“Through our MSME support, we empower the next generation and bridge inequality.

 

“In our mission to empower the next generation, we have taken bold steps to place young Nigerians at the heart of national development.

 

“Nowhere is this more evident than at the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), where the current management is making giant strides,” Tinubu said.

 

According to him, NASENI has embraced a digital-first approach, introduced real-time dashboards, and implemented end-to-end e-procurement through its Unified ERP System – setting a new governance benchmark for public institutions.

 

“Through bold, high-impact programmes like Innovate Naija, Irrigate Nigeria, the Asset Restoration Programme, and the Renewable Energy and Innovation Park in Gora, NASENI drives inclusive industrialisation at scale.

 

“From assembling electric vehicles and reviving idle assets to launching Africa’s most advanced Rapid Diagnostic Kit Factory and training female drone engineers through the NASCAV programme, these initiatives are creating jobs, restoring dignity to work, and opening up a future of possibilities for our youth.

 

“This is the movement we promised – a government of action powered by the energy and innovation of young Nigerians,” he said.

 

Tinubu said that agriculture and food security were top priorities of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

“We have launched aggressive initiatives to boost local food production, support farmers, and stabilise food prices.

 

“We have also invested in mechanised farming by procuring thousands of tractors, other farming tools, and fertilisers,” he said

 

The President also said that Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government had continued with major road construction and rehabilitation projects across all geopolitical zones.

 

He cited some of the road projects as the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway, the 9th Mile-Otukpo-Makurdi Road, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road.

 

Others are: the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Oyo-Ogbomosho Road, Sokoto-Badagry Road, Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Second Niger Bridge Access Road to Bodo-Bonny Road among hundreds of ongoing road projects across the country.

 

He said his administration had also launched initiatives to improve electricity generation by upgrading generation and transmission infrastructure and investing in off-grid solar energy to power homes, business premises, industries, schools and hospitals.

 

Tinubu said in the spirit of democracy and national renewal, his administration was preparing to welcome the world to Nigeria soon for the Motherland Festival.

 

“This landmark gathering will spotlight our rich heritage, dynamic creative industries, and the vibrant energy of our people. It will showcase Nigeria’s beauty through tourism, culture, and innovation, inviting the world to rediscover our nation.

 

“The Nigerian diaspora plays a vital role in our national transformation. Their expertise, investment, and global perspective are key to shaping the future we seek.

 

“In recognition, the government has introduced policies like the diaspora bond and the non-resident Bank Verification Number to make it easier for Nigerians abroad to invest, engage, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress,” he explained.

 

He said the Motherland Festival would bring together voices from across the continent and the diaspora in a decisive moment of unity and purpose, affirming that Nigeria is not only a leader in Africa but a committed global partner ready to engage, inspire and lead.

 

The President acknowledged the sacrifices many Nigerians had made and continued to make as his administration repositioned the country, not just for today but for generations yet unborn.

 

“Our journey is not over, but our direction is clear. So, is our resolve to tackle emerging challenges. By the Grace of God, we are confident that the worst is behind us.

 

“The real impact of our governance objectives is beginning to take hold. The future is bright, and together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria that we can all be proud of.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

 

 

UNICEF promotes menstrual hygiene for girls
Health

UNICEF promotes menstrual hygiene for girls

 

 

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has encouraged girls to embrace menstruation with pride and confidence, recognising themselves as vital contributors to humanity’s sustainability.

 

 

 

Mrs Aderonke Akinwole, Social and Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF, gave the advice during an event on Wednesday organised with the Nigeria Girls’ Guild and Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.

 

 

 

The event was held to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHDay) and was attended by students from both public and private schools across Lagos.

 

 

 

With the theme ‘Together for a Period Friendly World’, the event aimed to raise awareness and promote dignity in menstrual hygiene.

 

 

 

“When a girl begins menstruation, it should be celebrated. It signifies her transition into womanhood and her ability to sustain life.

 

 

 

“They should be proud, and seek accurate, helpful information to remain safe, clean, and healthy during their period,” Akinwole said.

 

 

 

She emphasised that girls must not feel ashamed, as menstruation is a natural part of womanhood and a symbol of female dignity.

 

 

 

She urged the state government to increase sensitisation efforts and include menstrual hygiene education in school curricula, religious settings, and community platforms.

 

 

 

Akinwole also warned against stigmatisation, especially from boys, and called for boys to be educated to respect menstruation as part of girls’ lives.

 

 

 

“Girls should understand the menstrual cycle even before it starts. This should be part of health education in schools, churches, mosques, and communities,” she said.

 

 

 

She explained that girls need awareness on menstrual hygiene management and should know how to prepare for their periods in a healthy, informed way.

 

 

 

Mrs Honfor Adesola, Director of Education at Lagos State Primary Education Board, commended UNICEF’s support in promoting menstrual hygiene and addressing issues affecting girls.

 

 

 

Adesola highlighted that maintaining menstrual hygiene is vital in preventing infections and ensuring comfort throughout the menstrual cycle.

 

 

 

She noted that the event also helped to raise awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine available free in health centres across Lagos.

 

 

 

“We’re here to mark MHDay and to engage girls on HPV awareness. The state government has provided the vaccine, and sensitisation must continue,” she explained.

 

 

 

She encouraged girls to discuss the HPV vaccine with their parents to gain consent, ensuring protection against cervical cancer.

 

 

 

“The vaccine is safe, effective, and accessible in state facilities for girls aged nine to fourteen, but many have not yet been vaccinated,” she added.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, Ethagah Divine, Head Girl of New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Surulere, called on NGOs to provide sanitary pads for girls.

 

 

 

She urged more campaigns and rallies to distribute free menstrual products, like UNICEF did, to promote hygiene and dignity during menstruation.

 

 

 

Miss Emmanuella Azubuike, a student of the same school, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and partners for the impactful menstrual hygiene awareness event.

 

 

 

“This programme has expanded my knowledge on menstrual hygiene and HPV. More NGOs should support these campaigns to reach and educate more young girls,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Let’s sustain legacies of ECOWAS’ founding fathers – Tinubu
General News

Let’s sustain legacies of ECOWAS’ founding fathers – Tinubu

 

 

 

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has called on West African leaders to uphold and pass on the vision of the founding fathers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as the regional bloc marks its 50th anniversary.

 

In a keynote address on Wednesday in Lagos, the President urged leaders to look beyond the artificial borders created by colonialists and embrace one another as a family, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.

 

Tinubu, the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, noted that the founding fathers foresaw a more united, harmonious, and purpose-driven regional bloc that would benefit many generations.

 

“Today, we celebrate not only five decades of history but the enduring spirit of unity, resilience, and shared destiny that defines our community.

 

“In 1975, our founding leaders envisioned a West Africa where borders unite rather than divide – a region of free movement, thriving trade, and peaceful coexistence. That vision is still alive,” said Tinubu.

 

The President said the regional bloc had lived up to the founders’ expectations in many respects, including peacekeeping, trade liberalisation, free movement of citizens, and working together to tackle security issues and global pandemics.

 

“ECOWAS is a beacon of African unity. In overcoming colonial legacies, we brought together Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone nations under one vision —an achievement of global significance.

 

“Our region has pioneered free movement, expanded intra-regional trade, and deepened integration through instruments like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and Joint Border Posts.

 

“These measures have facilitated business, cultural exchange, and mobility across West Africa,” Tinubu stated.

 

On peace and security, he said ECOWAS had acted decisively to restore constitutional order and counter instability.

 

“Our regional cooperation on counterterrorism and financial crime, including through GIABA, reflects our shared commitment to peace and safety.

 

“In governance, ECOWAS has upheld democratic norms through election observation, mediation, and institutions such as the ECOWAS Parliament and Court of Justice — cementing accountability, rule of law, and people-centred governance,” the President stated.

 

President Tinubu pointed to progress in agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation, singling out the ECOWAS Infrastructure Master Plan (2020–2045) and new platforms advancing regional growth and gender equality.

 

He, however, emphasised the need for more vigorous policy implementation and urged member states to ensure citizens felt the tangible benefits of integration.

 

“Our young people and women – who form the majority – must be at the heart of ECOWAS development.

 

“We must invest deliberately in their education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and leadership. Their success is the key to our future stability and prosperity.

 

“For nearly 40 years, Nigeria has supported regional capacity building through the Technical Aid Corps.

 

“We remain committed to deploying skilled professionals to ECOWAS countries and will continue to honour every eligible request,” the President added.

 

He urged leaders to close their ranks and work together to ensure the success of the economic bloc.

 

“As we look to the next fifty years, let us renew our compact with one another – with courage, clarity, and conviction.

 

“The work of integration is never done. Each generation must carry the flame forward, lighting the path of unity and shared progress for those who come after.

 

“Let us imagine a West Africa where our borders are zones of cooperation, not conflict; where our economies thrive through joint effort; and where our people, diverse yet bound by destiny, walk together toward peace, prosperity, and justice,” he said.

 

Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted ECOWAS’s achievements in peacekeeping, election monitoring, strengthening democratic institutions, trade liberalisation, gas pipeline construction, and security.

 

The only surviving founding father of ECOWAS, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, said he was happy that the regional body had survived for fifty years and has impacted the continent.

Gowon said Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso’s departures were not healthy for regional progress and development.

 

“Our sister nations that decided to leave will, in time, realise the bonds of culture. And with goodwill and sincere intention, they will find their way back.

 

“I am very encouraged to see the effort of government, ministers, Chief of Defense Staff, and the President. The President has constantly been working with the groups, and I hope they will convince them to return.

 

“Continue to be open, and don’t push them away. They will come back as individuals or as a group,” he said.

 

Dr Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, noted that ECOWAS has become a shining example as Africa’s oldest and most active regional bloc. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

 

 

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