As the world marks Menstrual Hygiene Day, celebrated every May 28, the Daurama Foundation has renewed calls for an end to menstrual stigma and the myths that continue to surround menstruation in many parts of Nigeria.

This is as the organisation disclosed that it is addressing menstrual stigma in Nigeria through a creative campaign that uses art and storytelling to challenge cultural taboos and misinformation surrounding menstruation.

The campaign, tagged “My First Period: What Could Have Been Different?” features young women from the Samira Buhari Mentorship Programme (SBMP) who use spoken word, drama, and personal stories to highlight the shame and silence many girls face during their first menstruation.

Founder of the Daurama Foundation, Dr Samira Buhari, noted that the initiative would help to dismantle the stigma and amplify the voices of Nigerian girls and young women.

“Their performances tackle the silence and shame that too often accompany a girl’s first period in Nigeria and beyond. They ask: What if schools offered compassionate support? What if families normalised open conversations? What if no girl has to ever feel ashamed?”, she said.

According to her, the initiative builds on the SBMP mentees’ training in public speaking and community advocacy, giving them the tools to spark meaningful change.

Buhari noted that art not only transcends barriers, it also heals, educates, and unites.

“I still remember hiding my first period out of fear. Today, we are actively working to create safe spaces where young women can reclaim their stories and inspire others to demand their dignity. Each performance is a call to action for a Nigeria where menstruation is a matter of pride, not prejudice”, she added.

Buhari assured that the organisation would continue to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, MH Day Secretariat at WASH United, and other stakeholders to deliver school outreach and community workshops.

“Their resources and expertise strengthen our impact while creating a powerful coalition for menstrual health and hygiene. By combining grassroots engagement with international collaboration, the Daurama Foundation aims to elevate the conversation on menstrual dignity.

“Our art-led advocacy does more than shine a spotlight on lived experiences. It charts a
path for policy makers, educators, parents, and peers to deliver practical support and challenge harmful myths wherever they exist,” she added.