By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
LAGOS, Nigeria — In a remarkable feat that has once again placed Ibeju-Lekki on the map of academic excellence, Nusaybah Abdul-Akeem, a student of Iwerekun Community Senior High School, has emerged winner of the 2025 HACEY Creative Writing Competition, representing Education District III.
Nusaybah’s winning prose, titled “Menstrual Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence,” explores the struggles of a young girl growing up in a rural community where menstruation is viewed as a taboo. Through vivid storytelling and emotional depth, Nusaybah sheds light on how ignorance and cultural beliefs often subject girls to isolation and shame during their menstrual periods.
The story takes an inspiring turn when an enlightened aunt from the city returns to the village to educate the community, dispelling myths surrounding menstruation and fostering open dialogue about the natural biological process.
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According to the judges, Nusaybah’s work stood out for its creativity, depth, and social relevance. “Her story was not only beautifully written but also courageous in addressing a topic that is still considered sensitive in many parts of the world,” one of the competition coordinators said.
The HACEY Creative Writing Competition, organized by HACEY Health Initiative, is part of the organization’s annual Girl Summit activities, which focus on promoting gender equality, menstrual health awareness, and youth empowerment. The initiative provides a platform for young people to express their ideas on pressing social issues through storytelling and creative expression.
Speaking after receiving the award, an elated Nusaybah dedicated her victory to her teachers and classmates, describing the experience as “a call to action for all girls to speak up and be proud of who they are.”
“I wrote this story because I’ve seen how girls are often made to feel ashamed of something that is completely natural. I want people to understand that menstruation is not a curse — it’s part of life,” she said.
Officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Education and HACEY Health Initiative praised Nusaybah’s achievement, noting that it reflects the positive impact of the Lagos State Government’s investment in education and youth development under the “A Greater Lagos Rising” agenda.
The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, in a congratulatory message, commended the young writer for her brilliance and encouraged other students to emulate her passion for advocacy through creativity.
“Nusaybah’s success is a testament to the intellectual potential that resides in our communities. We will continue to support initiatives that empower our young people to use their talents to promote social change,” he said.
HACEY Health Initiative, founded in 2007, is a non-profit organization committed to improving the health and productivity of women and young people in Nigeria through research, advocacy, and empowerment programs.
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With this victory, Ibeju-Lekki once again cements its reputation as a “Renewed Glowing District” producing bright minds committed to social transformation.
