Khadijah Aliyu
Population Services International (PSI) Nigeria, through its Menstrual Health and Hygiene No Wahala (MH NoW) project, has launched two culturally relevant audiovisual materials aimed at improving menstrual health awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting positive menstrual practices among adolescent girls, young women, and their communities.
The audiovisuals, titled “My Red Flower” and “Menstruation with Dignity,” were produced in Hausa and Pidgin English to connect with diverse audiences across Nigeria.
Both videos are subtitled in English to ensure inclusivity and wider accessibility for national and international viewers.
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According to PSI Nigeria, the productions reflect real stories and experiences of Nigerian girls and women, serving as powerful tools for education and behavioral change.
Through creative storytelling and relatable imagery, the audiovisuals are designed to spark open conversations, challenge menstrual taboos, and address the shame and stigma surrounding menstruation.
“The video helped me overcome the fear and shame around menstruation,” said one schoolgirl after watching My Red Flower during the launch event.
The launch activities took place in Nasarawa and Akwa Ibom States, providing platforms to introduce the materials directly to adolescent girls, young women, teachers, and Menstrual Health Champions.
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The sessions demonstrated how the audiovisuals can be used during dialogue sessions while collecting valuable feedback on their cultural relevance and ease of use.
At the Government Secondary School, Akwanga in Nasarawa State, the impact was immediate as students and teachers engaged actively in post-screening discussions.
In Akwa Ibom State, the Principal of Goretti Girls College, Dr. (Mrs.) Eno Ekpo, commended the initiative, describing it as groundbreaking.
“This is the first time, at my age and as a principal, that I am seeing menstruation discussed so openly. It should no longer be treated as a taboo,” she said.
A male teacher at the event also expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that the audiovisuals would support lessons on puberty and adolescent health.
“As a man, I have a wife and daughter, and I’m already thinking of how to get this video for my 9-year-old. I love it,” he said.
A Menstrual Health Champion in Akwa Ibom, Dorenyin, added that the materials had strengthened her capacity to engage girls in her community.
“The videos will help girls understand their bodies better and practice good menstrual hygiene even without teachers or parents around,” she noted.
Through these audiovisuals, PSI Nigeria reinforces its commitment to advancing menstrual health education, reducing stigma, and empowering girls and women to manage their menstruation with dignity, knowledge, and confidence.