Minister Hails Presidential Tax Waiver on Sanitary Towels, Partners Commit to Nationwide Implementation
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, in partnership with development agencies, has validated Nigeria’s first National Policy on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM), a milestone in advancing the dignity, health, and empowerment of women and girls.
At a high-level meeting in Abuja, Honourable Minister Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi—represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro—praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving tax waivers on sanitary towels under the new Tax Reform Act, describing it as a landmark move to make menstrual products more affordable, especially for rural communities and IDP camps.
Dr. Keshinro stressed that synergy between federal and state governments is vital for success, highlighting the inclusive consultation process behind the policy. Development partners, including WaterAid Nigeria’s Country Director Evelyn Mere and PSI Nigeria’s Acting Country Representative Mrs. Fifi Ogbondeminu, pledged full support. They emphasised tackling poor WASH facilities—present in only 11% of Nigerian schools—and addressing stigma, infrastructure gaps, and affordability through collaborative programmes such as MH-NoW.
Stakeholders unanimously called for swift and robust implementation, noting that the policy’s real impact will be felt when every woman and girl can manage menstruation safely, hygienically, and without stigma—anywhere in Nigeria.
The 2025–2030 MHHM Policy provides a framework for access to menstrual products, water, sanitation, hygiene facilities, education, and stigma elimination.
ADEOLA KUNLE
