Nigeria’s First Lady Distributes 10,000 Sanitary Pads to Ekiti Schoolgirls

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By Odekunle Doyin

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday launched the “Flow with Confidence” project in Ekiti State, distributing 10,000 disposable sanitary pads to secondary school girls as part of her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

The programme, held in Ado-Ekiti, drew students from the three senatorial districts alongside top government functionaries and education stakeholders.

Represented by the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Mrs Tinubu said the intervention is designed to ensure that no girl-child is forced to miss school during her menstrual cycle due to lack of sanitary products.

“No Girl Should Miss School Because of Her Period”

The First Lady described the practice of girls staying out of school during menstruation as “unacceptable”, stressing that the initiative falls under the education framework of RHI, which seeks to promote equal learning opportunities for all.

“In today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because of her inability to afford sanitary products. Sadly, many girls, especially in rural areas, either stay at home or resort to unhygienic alternatives during menstruation, causing them to fall behind academically and, in some cases, drop out of school entirely. This must stop,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu announced that at the end of the exercise, 370,000 schoolgirls across rural communities nationwide would receive a year’s supply of sanitary pads.

Stakeholders to Oversee Distribution

She explained that the RHI will partner with the wives of state governors, LGA chairpersons, school principals, and community leaders to ensure that the sanitary pads reach deserving beneficiaries directly. She also cautioned against hoarding or commercializing the products.

Ekiti Government Commends Initiative

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Chief Monisade Afuye, praised the First Lady for the gesture, saying it would improve the personal hygiene, confidence, and academic performance of young girls in Ekiti.

He urged the beneficiaries to take their health seriously, especially during menstruation, while assuring that the state government remains committed to supporting girl-child education and well-being.

Beneficiaries Express Gratitude

Excited students at the event expressed appreciation to the First Lady for prioritizing their welfare, pledging to make good use of the sanitary pads.