From period poverty to policy change: advancing menstrual health as a public health priority in Nigeria

Period poverty, the lack of access to menstrual products, adequate sanitation, and reliable health information, continues to undermine the health, dignity, and opportunities of millions of girls and women in Nigeria. Closely linked to gender inequality, the problem is compounded by stigma, inadequate infrastructure, and economic barriers, especially for low-income and marginalized groups. While civil society initiatives and isolated government gestures exist, Nigeria still lacks a comprehensive national menstrual health policy. In contrast, countries such as Scotland, Kenya, and Colombia have advanced reforms through product subsidies, menstrual education, and integrated WASH systems. Drawing on these global experiences and local efforts by Nigerian organizations, this commentary calls for a coordinated, government-led response that embeds menstrual health into public health, education, and social protection frameworks. Achieving menstrual equity will require sustained political commitment, structural investment, and culturally responsive policies.