Adamawa State Strengthens Menstrual Health Advocacy as TWG Holds Monthly Meeting in Yola

By Semen Isaiah Lerum

Stakeholders working to improve menstrual health and hygiene management in Adamawa State have reaffirmed their commitment to stronger collaboration, policy advocacy, and community sensitization during the regular monthly meeting of the Adamawa State Technical Working Group (TWG) on Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management (MHHM).

The meeting was held on March 5, 2026, at the Women Development Center, Yola, and was hosted by the Adamawa State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with Big Family 360 (BF360) Foundation, with funding support from Agence Française de Développement (AFD) through Fòs Feminista.

The meeting, which brought together 20 participants representing various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organizations, and development partners involved in advancing menstrual health Management across the state.

TWG Members

The session was chaired by the TWG Co-Chair, Mrs. Mary Vitalis of the Adamawa State Ministry of Health, who represented the TWG Chair and Focal Person from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, who was unavoidably absent.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Vitalis welcomed members and emphasized the importance of collective action in achieving the objectives of the Technical Working Group.

She encouraged members to remain committed to the group’s goals, noting that collaboration among partners is critical to addressing menstrual health challenges.

“We must continue to work together with commitment and shared responsibility to advance menstrual health and hygiene management in Adamawa State,” she said.

Mrs. Mary Vitalis (SMOH)

The Ministry of Education, through its focal person Emmanuel A. Lawal, called on partners to strengthen advocacy efforts and collaborate with government institutions implementing similar programs.

“Organizations implementing menstrual health interventions should work closely with relevant government agencies to strengthen partnerships and increase the overall impact of these initiatives,” he said.

Emmanuel A. Lawal

During deliberations, Mr Dikyami Elishama, Programs Manager of Big Family 360 Foundation, explained that the TWG was established to coordinate efforts toward improving menstrual health in the state.

“The TWG aims to support the National Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management Policy, coordinate partner activities, advocate for a dedicated budget line for MHHM in Adamawa State, and explore opportunities for funding and domestication of menstrual health policies,” she said.

Mr Dikyami Elishama (Programs manager bf360)

Other partners Present during the TWG Meeting including FOMWAN, RIA Initiative, HARAF, and FIDA ,PLWD and other MDs.