Lagos mobilises support for adolescent health, menstrual hygiene

…urges them to speak up on health needs

By Osho Olatomiwa

The Lagos State Government has called on adolescents to take an active role in decisions affecting their health and well-being, emphasising the need for improved access to mental health support, sexual and reproductive health services.

The call was made during the commemoration of International Adolescent Health Week at Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island, themed “Nothing About Us Without Us: Power, Voice and Health Equity for All Adolescents.”

The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide, said young people must be actively involved in shaping health policies and programmes, stressing that all adolescents should have access to quality healthcare and reliable health information, regardless of their location or school status.

The Director of Family Health and Nutrition, Dr. Abosede Wellington, said the event featured counselling, health screenings and interactive sessions designed to address challenges such as mental health concerns, sexual and reproductive health needs, and gender-based violence.

Meanwhile, Vcare Development Foundation disclosed that, with support from Stelling Oil Group, it had reached 26 schools, facilitated 4,710 peer-sharing sessions, distributed 4,265 educational booklets and more than 6,000 packs of sanitary pads.

The foundation also trained more than 100 adolescents in the production of reusable sanitary pads as part of efforts to promote menstrual hygiene and equip young people with practical skills.

The ministry called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers and development partners to expand youth-friendly health services and ensure adolescents have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their health and future.