Menstrual dignity: First lady gifts 10,000 sanitary pads to Anambra schoolgirls

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Anambra State schoolgirls can now ‘Flow With Confidence’, thanks to a donation of 10,000 sanitary pads from First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, part of a nationwide initiative to support girls’ education in the country.

Represented by the Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, the donation was made on Wednesday at the National Launch of the ‘Flow With Confidence’ initiative.

Anambra received 10,000 of the 370,000 disposable sanitary pads distributed to schoolgirls across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

The event, themed ‘Empowering School Girls Through Menstrual Health,’ aimed to address menstrual challenges that hinder girls’ education.

Mrs Soludo

Speaking at the event, Tinubu said, “This menstrual health intervention is designed to tackle the challenges girls face during their periods, which often cause them to fall behind in school or drop out entirely.

“It is unacceptable that the girl-child, especially in rural communities, still experiences such barriers.

“At RHI, we believe girls should never have to choose between their dignity and their education. This intervention is a step towards ensuring that.

“The intervention involved procuring 370,000 customised sanitary pads at a total cost of N2,550,297,150. Each state is to receive 10,000 packs along with a one-year supply,”she said.

Tinubu urged local government chairmen, who are closer to the communities, to take ownership of the programme and ensure the pads reach the intended beneficiaries.

She encouraged the schoolgirls to use the pads responsibly, stay in school, be confidentand not let stigma stand in the way of their educational goals.

Earlier, Dr. Tonia Mbagwu, HIV/AIDS Programme Coordinator at the Anambra State Ministry of Health, educated the schoolgirls on menstrual hygiene, describing menstruation as a natural part of growing up.

“Maintaining good hygiene during your period helps you stay healthy and confident. Change your sanitary pad every four to six hours to prevent infections and odor.

“Always wash your hands before and after changing pads, keep your private area clean with water and mild soap, and dispose of used pads properly in a bin—not the toilet.

“Menstruation is not a disease or a curse; it is normal. Do not feel shy or ashamed. Take care of yourself and support your friends,” she said.

Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu, Chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, expressed gratitude to the President’s and Governors’ wives for their commitment to the health and well-being of the girl-child.

On behalf of the schoolgirls, Ifeyinwa Ezeoke of Our Lady School, Nnobi, thanked the President’s and Governors’ wives for easing their menstrual challenges.

“With these pads, we can stay confident and focused on our education without worry,” she said.

Mrs Soludo, who previously launched pad banks in 300 schools across the state, also unveiled the Healthy Living Pad Bank portal, aimed at ensuring a steady supply of sanitary pads to schools.