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Empowering Nigerian Girls: Launch of the ‘Flow With Confidence’ Initiative in Ibadan
In a significant stride towards enhancing menstrual health awareness and support, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), unveiled the ‘Flow With Confidence’ program in Ibadan, Oyo State. This launch is part of a broader national campaign distributing 370,000 disposable sanitary pads to schoolgirls across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Community Engagement and Distribution in Oyo State
The event in Ibadan attracted a large gathering of schoolgirls, educators, government representatives, and community leaders. Representing Senator Tinubu, the Oyo State First Lady, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, officially handed over 10,000 sanitary pads intended for 10,000 schoolgirls within the state, marking a crucial step in addressing menstrual hygiene challenges locally.
Addressing Period Poverty and School Attendance
Senator Tinubu emphasized that the initiative’s core mission is to equip young girls with essential menstrual hygiene products and education, thereby fostering self-assurance and reducing absenteeism linked to period poverty. Each recipient is guaranteed a year-long supply of disposable sanitary pads, ensuring sustained support.
“It is unacceptable that in 2025, many girls still miss school due to the inability to afford sanitary products,” she stated. “Too often, girls resort to unsafe alternatives or drop out entirely because of stigma and embarrassment. This cycle must be broken.”
Investment and Accountability in Distribution
The Renewed Hope Initiative has allocated over ₦2.55 billion towards procuring these sanitary pads, underscoring the program’s scale and commitment. Senator Tinubu called on local government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to oversee the fair and transparent distribution of these materials.
“No girl should have to choose between her dignity and her education. We urge all stakeholders to actively support the Flow With Confidence program to protect the future of every Nigerian girl,” she added.
Support from Oyo State Leadership
Engr. Tamunominini Makinde, the Oyo State First Lady, represented by the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Initiative for their timely and impactful contribution. She highlighted that menstruation should neither be stigmatized nor hinder educational opportunities.
“Every girl deserves empowerment, protection, and support. Oyo State is dedicated to advancing the welfare and dignity of the girl-child,” Makinde affirmed.
She further encouraged parents, educators, and local authorities to champion the program’s sustainability, noting that this initiative signals a nationwide commitment to menstrual health and education.
“Menstruation is natural, and by providing sanitary pads, we are empowering girls to remain in school and thrive. Investing in the girl-child is investing in Nigeria’s future,” Mrs. Oni concluded.
Educational Impact and Health Awareness
Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, emphasized that the program transcends mere distribution of sanitary products. He highlighted that effective menstrual health management enhances girls’ self-esteem, hygiene practices, and academic success.
“Menstruation is a natural developmental milestone. With proper hygiene and confidence, no girl should be academically disadvantaged,” he remarked.
Olayiwola assured that Governor Seyi Makinde‘s administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote the education and wellbeing of the girl-child. He also stressed the importance of regular handwashing, personal hygiene, and fostering open dialogue about menstruation to dismantle stigma and secrecy that jeopardize young girls’ health.
Looking Ahead: A National Movement for Menstrual Health
The ‘Flow With Confidence’ program represents a vital step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat period poverty and promote menstrual health education. By ensuring access to sanitary products and encouraging community involvement, the initiative aims to create an environment where every girl can pursue her education without interruption or shame.
As global awareness of menstrual equity grows, Nigeria’s commitment through programs like RHI’s ‘Flow With Confidence’ aligns with international goals to improve health, education, and gender equality for young women.
