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The Menopause Support Initiative, an NGO, has called on the Federal Government to support awareness efforts around menopause to better inform and assist women going through the stage.
The Founder, Mrs Mosunmola Dosumu, made the call at an awareness event in Abuja on Sunday.
She noted that many women experienced physical and emotional challenges during menopause and needed proper information and support during this critical phase of their lives.
She appealed to non-governmental organisations and women groups to join the campaign to raise awareness among Nigerian women.
According to her, the Initiative has lined up several activities, including a “Walk for Menopause”, to mark the World Menopause Month observed in October.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event also featured a fitness dance, health checks, an exhibition, and the distribution of free items aimed at sensitising women.
Dosumu, a pharmacist, described menopause as a stage in life when women must be intentional about self-care.
“For two years, I lost myself. I didn’t know what I was going through, and that’s what makes women go from one hospital to another, spending so much money without even knowing what’s wrong.
“Some think witches or wizards are responsible for their symptoms because they live in ignorance, and it’s unfortunate that our country isn’t doing enough about it.
“By 2030, one out of every six women will be menopausal, and many may face problems at home because their husbands don’t understand what they’re going through,” she said.
Dosumu said some men had abandoned their wives out of frustration, believing they were battling mysterious ailments.
“It’s time for government to partner with us. We can’t do this alone,” she added.
The Chairperson of the Abuja Chapter of the Initiative, Mrs Elizabeth Onifade, said the stigma surrounding menopause continued to prevent many women from acknowledging or seeking help during the stage.
She said the turnout at the event was encouraging, noting that many participants were motivated by the pain and confusion they had endured in silence.
“It’s been a wonderful experience under our founder’s leadership. While we were on the road show, we met women who had to leave work constantly due to menopausal symptoms and mental health issues.
“We hope that through continued awareness, more women will be enlightened about what they are going through,” she said.
One of the participants, Mrs Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, told newsmen that joining the Menopause Initiative had given her a clearer understanding of the changes to expect during menopause and how to manage them.
A medical practitioner, Dr Nnenna Ameh, advised women to seek medical guidance early, get family and social support, and adopt regular exercise to manage symptoms effectively.
The theme for the 2025 World Menopause Month is “Menopause: Know Your Pause.”
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