Lagos State Launches Programme to Educate Girls on Body Safety and Menstrual Health

Lagos State Launches Programme to Educate Girls on Body Safety and Menstrual Health

The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board has commenced a statewide sensitisation initiative to protect children in public primary schools, with special focus on girls’ safety and health.

The programme, which began on Sunday, targets two major areas: preventing sexual abuse and improving personal and menstrual hygiene among pupils.

Teachers, education stakeholders, and child protection advocates attended the event. The sessions were designed to help pupils understand how to recognize abuse, set personal boundaries, protect themselves, and report any misconduct.

Speaking on behalf of LASUBEB Executive Chairman, Hakeem Shittu, board member Adewale Babatunde said the board is dedicated to creating safe and inclusive learning spaces.

“We maintain a zero-tolerance policy on child abuse, exploitation and all forms of violence against children,” he said. “Safeguarding pupils is a collective duty for government, parents, teachers and communities.”

Babatunde also applauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritizing policies that center on children and for continued investment in basic education.

Also addressing the gathering, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic Education, Yewande Jeje, noted that the campaign is the second phase of the state’s broader effort to strengthen child protection in public schools.

She urged the pupils, particularly girls, to be bold about their rights.

“If anyone makes you uncomfortable, speak up. Do not stay silent. Report to a trusted adult or the appropriate authorities,” Jeje said.

As part of the programme, experts facilitated practical sessions for the pupils.

Child development counsellor, Dr. Yemi Ayemoba, spoke on body autonomy and personal safety.

“Your body belongs to you. If anyone tries to touch you inappropriately, say no, leave the situation, and tell someone you trust right away,” she told the pupils.

Health educator Ruth Oladoye handled lessons on menstrual hygiene and general cleanliness. She explained how proper hygiene practices help girls stay healthy, confident and attentive in class.

To support the training, LASUBEB distributed hygiene kits containing essential personal care items to all participating pupils.

The board stated that the initiative aligns with its ongoing commitment to strengthen child safeguarding measures and promote the wellbeing and dignity of girls in Lagos public primary schools.