On World Menstrual Hygiene Day, advocates are calling on Nigerians to break the silence surrounding menstruation. A new documentary film addressing menstrual health and the stigma around periods among young girls premiered in Lagos on Children’s Day, highlighting the need for more open conversations about menstruation in Nigeria.
Documentary Premiere in Lagos
The 40-minute participatory documentary titled 'Menses…? What’s That?' was screened on Tuesday at Polygon Space, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event was organized by ADANSONIA Foundation in partnership with Sweet Potato Media. The film features real-life conversations with 18 girls aged 11 to 18, who shared their experiences, fears, and opinions about menstruation in what organizers described as a “safe environment.”
Creator's Vision
Speaking at the premiere, the film's Creator and Director, Imoh Eboh, said the project was inspired by the persistent shame and silence surrounding menstruation in many homes, schools, and communities. “We made this because too many kids still think periods are dirty or shameful. We are creating a period-friendly world through the voices of these girls for all young people of the world, male and female. Everyone should watch it,” Eboh stated.
Interactive Session
The screening was followed by an interactive session involving the director, cast members, and guests. Many participants discussed the importance of menstrual education and breaking harmful myths around puberty. Executive producers of the documentary are Eboh, Onyinye Okonji, and Hauwa Nana Ibrahim, while the film was produced by Eboh alongside Bolaji Gelax.
Participants and Experiences
Among the participants featured in the documentary are young actresses Khaira Bashir, Sapphire Ekeng, and Pamilerin Ayodeji, who shared personal and peer experiences about growing up and navigating conversations around menstruation. Adult actresses Eboh and Joy Nmezi also reflected on their early experiences with periods in Nigerian schools.
Medical Advice
Producer Gelax used the occasion to stress the importance of seeking professional medical advice when young girls experience irregular menstrual cycles, noting that delayed treatment could lead to complications later in life. The documentary also explores cultural attitudes towards menstruation, examining how shame, secrecy, and inherited beliefs continue to shape public conversations about menstrual health.
Wider Advocacy Campaign
According to the organizers, the film will now be taken to schools, communities, and religious centers across the country as part of a wider advocacy campaign aimed at promoting menstrual health education and creating a “period-friendly world.” ADANSONIA Foundation said its partnership with Sweet Potato Media is intended to help expand the film’s reach to schools and community centers nationwide.
Release and Follow-Up
The documentary has been released on Sweet Potato Media’s YouTube channel, and organizers said follow-up screenings will include cross-generational conversations involving parents, educators, young people, and health professionals.
