As part of efforts to promote menstrual hygiene, over 10,000 girls in Ogun State are set to benefit from a free sanitary pads initiative.
The announcement was made by the State’s First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, on Tuesday during the launch of the programme at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
Mrs Abiodun said the project is being carried out under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s “Flow with Confidence” programme, started by Senator Oluremi Tinubu. She explained that providing free sanitary pads is a critical step to empower schoolgirls, ensuring they maintain dignity, confidence, and proper menstrual hygiene.
“In today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because of her inability to afford sanitary products.
“It is unacceptable that our girls still continue to face significant challenges during their menstrual cycle, especially those in rural communities, who miss school days every month because they cannot afford sanitary pads.
“Some who attend resort to using unsafe and unhygienic alternatives, while others stay at home altogether, falling behind in their studies and, in some cases, eventually dropping out of school.
“This trend must end, and this intervention, under the Education framework of the Renewed Hope Initiative, is aimed at doing just that,” she added.
The Ogun First Lady revealed that a total of 370,000 free sanitary pads will be distributed to schoolgirls in rural communities nationwide. Each state, including the Federal Capital Territory, will receive 10,000 packs through State First Ladies and RHI coordinators to reach girls who cannot afford sanitary products.
Mrs Abiodun stated, “Today, I will be handing over 10,000 packs of disposable sanitary pads for distribution to 10,000 deserving girls in rural communities across Ogun State.
“Each beneficiary will receive a one-year supply of the pads. We chose disposable sanitary pads because it offers a simple, hygienic option that offers better health benefits for a woman’s reproductive well-being.”
She urged the recipients to make proper use of the pads and not to sell them, appealing to council chairmen to ensure the programme succeeds.
“This is for you, make the most of it and do not sell the pads. Stay in school, study hard, support one another and never allow shame or stigma to take away your confidence.
“Use this opportunity to pursue your dreams boldly, because you are the future of this nation and I believe in you,” she said.
The initiative marks a significant step toward improving menstrual hygiene and supporting the education of girls, especially those in rural communities.
