A businessman, philanthropist and emerging political leader, Hon. Chris Ogar, has partnered with the Nlowo ChildCare Foundation to support thousands of pupils and students across Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State through a three-day sensitisation and outreach programme.
The initiative, organised to mark this year’s Children’s Day and World Menstrual Hygiene Day, is targeting schoolchildren in Yala I and Yala II State Constituencies with educational materials and menstrual hygiene support.
As part of the programme, over 5,000 exercise books, 2,000 school bags and 7,000 sanitary pads are being distributed to pupils and students in six selected schools across the local government area.
Speaking during the outreach, Ogar commended the Founder of Nlowo ChildCare Foundation, Lady Comfort Akobi, for her commitment to improving the lives of children and adolescents through education, mentorship and health awareness programmes.
He reaffirmed his support for initiatives that promote education, health and the overall wellbeing of young people, noting that investing in children remains one of the most effective ways of securing a brighter future for society.
According to him, every child deserves access to quality education, proper guidance and the resources needed to succeed.
The sensitisation campaign is designed to equip students with knowledge on personal hygiene, menstrual health management, substance abuse prevention and responsible decision-making.
Participants are also being educated on the proper use and disposal of sanitary pads as part of efforts to improve menstrual health awareness and challenge harmful stereotypes associated with menstruation.
Flagging off the programme, Akobi said the initiative was aimed at empowering young people with the knowledge, confidence and life skills required to navigate adolescence successfully.
She added that the Foundation remains committed to advancing the welfare, education and empowerment of children across Cross River State.
The first phase of the outreach was held at Community Secondary School, Ogangang, Wanikade, where students received practical lessons on menstrual hygiene management, personal development and responsible behaviour.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to Ogar and the Foundation for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful.
Many of the students said the programme had improved their understanding of personal hygiene, boosted their confidence and provided resources that would support their academic activities.
Stakeholders have also commended the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of leadership driven by service, compassion and a commitment to community development.
Observers noted that the programme goes beyond the distribution of educational materials and sanitary products, offering hope and encouragement to young people while promoting education and social inclusion.
The latest intervention comes shortly after Ogar donated a wheelchair to a physically challenged boy in Idigbo community, Okpoma, in Yala Local Government Area, a gesture that was widely applauded by residents and community leaders.
The partnership with the Nlowo ChildCare Foundation is being viewed as another step in Ogar’s ongoing efforts to promote education, youth empowerment and social welfare in Cross River State.
