Experts and Nollywood icons call for institutional backing, health education, and leadership involvement.
Stakeholders gathered at a major health forum to demand greater awareness, education, and support for women navigating menopause, warning that physical, emotional, and social challenges remain poorly understood.
The event, known as the Menopause West Africa Experience 2026, brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and corporate organizations in West Africa to address the silent struggle of midlife health transitions.
Organizers emphasized that institutional support and workplace policies are vital to help women thrive, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Menopause Challenges and Community Awareness
Mr. Clifford Okwesi, Chairman of the Organising Committee of Menopause West Africa, noted that menopause is often viewed as a taboo topic associated with aging, leading to unnecessary silence and distress.
He explained that symptoms can sometimes begin as early as age thirty, causing unexpected physical shocks that require proper balance and medical guidance.
To combat this, the organization inaugurated one hundred menopause champions, tasked with reaching thousands of women in local communities to spread education and reliable support.
Call to Action for Political Leaders and Wives
Veteran Nollywood actor Patience Ozokwor, widely known as Mama G, issued a passionate appeal to the wives of the president, state governors, and lawmakers to support rural women.
She urged political leaders to provide necessary education, awareness campaigns, and accessible healthcare structures to assist women experiencing midlife transitions.
Ozokwor also advised women to maintain healthy lifestyles, exercise regularly, listen to medical practitioners, and avoid sedentary habits to ensure long term wellbeing.
Institutional Support and Midlife Wellness
Representing the Customs Officers Wives Association, Mrs. Kikilomo Adeniyi emphasized that menopause is not a disease, but rather a new chapter of strength, wisdom, and renewed purpose.
She affirmed that COWA intends to carry out educational campaigns across schools, churches, and public spaces to ensure that women receive proper care and community backing.
Keynote speaker Lauren Chiren, founder of Women of a Certain Stage, advocated for practical support and informed choices, while attendees enjoyed health consultations at the Pause and Flourish Lounge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Menopause West Africa Experience?
The Menopause West Africa Experience is an annual platform that brings together women, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to advance understanding and support for women navigating menopause.
Who called for greater support for women during menopause?
Stakeholders including event chairman Clifford Okwesi, veteran Nollywood actor Patience Ozokwor, and COWA representative Caroline Ifeoluwa called for increased awareness and institutional backing.
Why is menopause education important in workplaces and communities?
Education is essential because the physical and emotional challenges of menopause are often poorly understood, affecting women's health, family life, and economic productivity.
