The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has officially launched the ‘Flow with Confidence Sanitary Pad Initiative’, a landmark programme aimed at improving menstrual health and hygiene among schoolgirls across the country.
Speaking during the launch on Tuesday in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, the First Lady said the core objective of the initiative is to empower schoolgirls through education on menstrual hygiene, intended to promote confidence and dignity.
The First Lady, who was represented by the wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti, stressed that no girl should ever be forced to miss school because she cannot afford sanitary materials.
“It is unacceptable that our girls still face significant challenges during their menstrual cycle. Menstruation is natural, and it must never stand in the way of education, confidence, or self-worth,” she said.
She noted that the programme was carefully designed for the well-being of the girl child across the federation, with particular emphasis on girls in rural communities.
“Under the initiative, one year’s supply of disposable sanitary pads will be distributed to 370,000 schoolgirls in rural communities nationwide, with 10,000 packs allocated to each state.
“This intervention is to support girls in rural communities and those unable to afford sanitary pads.
“Each beneficiary will receive a one-year supply. We chose disposable sanitary pads because they provide a safer hygiene option for women’s reproductive wellbeing,” she added.
Addressing the students, Otti encouraged them to study diligently, support one another and never allow shame or stigma to diminish their confidence. She urged them to make the most of the opportunity and pursue their dreams boldly.
Also speaking was Joy Okechukwu, one of the guest speakers, who educated the students on the importance of proper personal hygiene during menstruation, encouraging openness and informed conversations about menstrual health.
“It is very important that a young girl is educated and well-grounded in proper personal hygiene during menstruation,” she stated.
Dr Theodora Ngozika Igboaruka, who delivered a second lecture, also underscored the roles of parents, schools and health workers in promoting safe menstrual practices and creating supportive environments for adolescent girls.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghukwa, described the initiative as a transformative intervention in the fight against menstrual poverty.
She noted that many girls silently struggle during their menstrual cycle due to a lack of access to sanitary products, which often affects their school attendance and self-esteem.
“Our ministry will work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure effective distribution and sustained advocacy for menstrual hygiene education across communities,” she assured.
The event marked a significant step in strengthening collaborative efforts to protect the dignity, health and educational advancement of the Nigerian girl child.
