Abuja, Nigeria – The atmosphere was filled with empowerment, education, and solidarity as the Deaf Women Association of Nigeria (DWAN), FCT Chapter, joined millions around the world to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day — a day dedicated to breaking the silence, smashing stigma, and promoting menstrual health and rights, especially for Deaf women and girls.
In a deeply inspiring address, Ms. Anthonia Adamu, Chairperson of DWAN FCT, welcomed participants and spoke passionately in three significant capacities: as a woman, a deaf person with multiple disabilities, and as a leader of an organization striving to transform the lives of Deaf women across Nigeria.
“As a Deaf woman, I constantly strive for the recognition of my humanity and equal treatment in all aspects of life,” she said. “This day is not just about pads and periods; it is about health rights, education, empowerment, and dignity for Deaf girls and women across Nigeria.”
The event, held in Abuja, featured a vibrant lineup of activities, including the distribution of free sanitary pads and menstrual kits, demonstrations on proper hygiene practices, and powerful storytelling moments where Deaf women boldly shared their personal experiences with menstruation — a topic too often shrouded in silence and shame.
Participants were also treated to a health talk and panel discussion, which delved into the realities of menstruation for Deaf women and girls — a conversation that exposed the barriers of access to menstrual education, health services, and communication in healthcare systems due to lack of sign language interpreters.
“Ending Period Poverty for Deaf Girls in Nigeria”
One of the high points of the celebration was a keynote address by Mrs. Dorothy Ndidi Ossai (JP), a healthcare practitioner, who spoke on the theme: “Ending Period Poverty for Deaf Girls in Nigeria.” She emphasized that access to menstrual hygiene is a basic human right and called for increased investment in inclusive health education and menstrual materials for vulnerable groups, especially Deaf girls in rural communities.
“A society that removes barriers and enhances the welfare of its most vulnerable is a just and mature society,” said Mrs. Ossai, echoing the words of Deaconess Adedoyin Beyioku-Alase, founder of DWAN.
A Celebration of Partnerships and Impact
Ms. Anthonia extended heartfelt appreciation to the numerous partners who made the event possible, including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), Deaf Helping Hands, Jennifer Etuh Foundation, and the National Headquarters of DWAN.
She also paid tribute to the National President of DWAN, Mrs. Hellen Beyioku-Alase, for her unrelenting dedication to the advancement of Deaf women in Nigeria.
“Your tireless advocacy has given us the courage to speak up, stand tall, and fight for our rights,” she stated.
Menstrual Hygiene is a Right, Not a Privilege
This year’s celebration sent a strong message: menstrual hygiene is not a luxury—it is a right. The Deaf Women Association of Nigeria is setting an example of inclusive advocacy that ensures no one is left behind, regardless of disability.
Educational materials were also shared with participants, helping to build long-term health literacy and empowering Deaf girls and women to manage their menstrual health with confidence and pride.
As the program came to a close, it was evident that this was more than just an event — it was a movement for dignity, inclusion, and equality. The Deaf women of the FCT made it clear: they are not asking for sympathy — they are demanding equity.
