Nonprofit organisation NOLA Africa has emphasised the critical need to improve access to menstrual health education and reproductive health awareness for adolescent girls in underserved communities. This effort aims to promote dignity, confidence, and healthy living among young girls.
Project Lafiya Outreach in Isefun Community
The organisation made this known during its Project Lafiya outreach held in Isefun Community, Lagos, to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day. The initiative reached over 250 teenage girls with educational sessions focusing on menstrual hygiene, emotional wellbeing, puberty, personal safety, and sexual and reproductive health rights.
Founder's Remarks
Speaking during the programme, founder of NOLA Africa, Tomiwa Nihinlola, stated that many young girls still lack access to accurate health information due to stigma and silence surrounding conversations on menstruation and reproductive health. According to Nihinlola, the outreach was designed to provide a safe and practical environment where girls could ask questions freely and receive accurate guidance from trained facilitators.
Nihinlola said: “Project Lafiya was created because we believe every girl deserves access to accurate health information, dignity, and a safe space to ask questions without fear or shame. For many girls, conversations around menstrual and reproductive health are still surrounded by silence and stigma. We wanted to help change that in a way that feels practical, relatable, and community-driven.
“We are not just talking about health education. We are talking about confidence, self-worth, and helping young girls feel informed enough to make safer decisions about their lives and futures. The response from the girls reminded us how important these conversations truly are.
“At NOLA Africa, we believe social impact starts with access. When girls have the right information, support systems, and opportunities to learn in safe environments, it changes how they see themselves and what they believe is possible for their future.”
Facilitators and Topics Covered
The sessions were facilitated by sexuality education advocate and counsellor Omolayo Oyawoye and menstrual health educator Olabisi Emmanuel. They engaged participants on topics including consent, body literacy, menstrual care, and emotional wellbeing.
Distribution of Sanitary Pads and Booklets
The organisation also distributed reusable sanitary pads and menstrual record booklets to participants. These resources are intended to support proper hygiene management and help the girls better understand their menstrual cycles.
Broader Commitment to Empowerment
NOLA Africa stated that the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to empowering women and girls in vulnerable communities through education, mentorship, and access to essential resources. The organisation added that it would continue to expand community-based health and wellness interventions aimed at improving awareness and support systems for adolescent girls across Nigeria.
