By Our Reporter
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO)- the Tswangi Development Initiative (TDI), has empowered over 100 female students with what they described as “critical menstrual health education and dignity-saving support.”
The outreach which took place at Government Secondary School, Kabusa, Abuja, yesterday, combined learning with inspiration aimed at correcting erroneous long-standing beliefs surrounding menstruation.
Speaking, the TDI Program Lead, Maimuna Abdullahi, insisted that no female student should miss school as a result of menstruation.
She reiterated that her NGO is determine to ensure the restoration of the dignity of female students in the country and that none should be made to feel less important as a result of lack of access to essential sanitary materials.
“Menstruation should never be a reason for any girl to feel less than others or miss school. You have every right to pursue your dreams, and knowledge is your power,” she stressed.
Maimuna explained that TDI’s initiative is part of a broader call for menstrual equity in Nigeria and therefore, called on the governments at all levels, educators, and development partners to make menstrual health a core component of adolescent education and public health policy.
On her part, TDI Program Officer, Monica Uche, while calling for a systemic change insisted that young girls in Nigeria no mater their social status deserve free access to information that will empower them live and learn with confidence.
According to her: “This isn’t just about pads and hygiene—it’s about justice. Every girl deserves access to the information and resources that allow her to live and learn with confidence and pride.”
While sharing her experience, one of the beneficiaries, Fatima Mohammed, noted that the awareness has boosted her confidence knowing that menstruation is a natural occurrence to every female.
“I used to feel embarrassed and thought periods were something to hide. But now I know it’s natural, and I’m not ashamed anymore. I’ve learned how to stay clean, take care of myself, and I feel so much stronger,” Fatima said.
Also, Elizabeth Emmanuel, said: “We were taught to look out for each other and speak up when we need help. Before, I didn’t know how to even talk about my period. Now, I have my friends and we support each other. It really brought us together.”
The students engaged in open discussion sessions, received accurate information about menstrual hygiene management and were equipped with essential sanitary materials to support their well-being.
To ensure sustainability and access, sanitary pads were also distributed, removing a major barrier that often keeps girls out of school during their periods.
