Oluremi Tinubu flags off distribution of sanitary pads nationwide

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday flagged off the distribution of 370,000 sanitary pads worth N2,550,297,150 for schoolgirls in rural communities across the 36 states and the FCT. The launch, under her Renewed Hope Initiative “Flow with Confidence,” took place at the Lagos State House, Alausa, with schoolgirls and government officials in attendance. She was represented by the Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.

Reading Mrs. Tinubu’s speech, Dr. Sanwo-Olu said the programme is a vital menstrual health intervention designed to empower girls in rural areas. It aims to promote knowledge, dignity, and confidence through improved menstrual hygiene. The initiative was simultaneously launched in Borno, Cross River, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kebbi, and Lagos States, with other states expected to join as soon as they receive supplies.

“In today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because she cannot afford sanitary products,” the First Lady said. “Many still face significant challenges, with some resorting to unsafe alternatives while others stay home, falling behind in their studies and, in some cases, dropping out altogether. This trend must end, and this intervention is aimed at doing just that.”

She explained that one-year supplies of disposable sanitary pads will be distributed to 370,000 schoolgirls nationwide, with each state and the FCT receiving 10,000 packs through State First Ladies and RHI coordinators. She stressed that the pads were not to be sold under any circumstance.

Mrs. Tinubu added that disposable sanitary pads were chosen because they offer hygienic benefits for women’s reproductive health. She further revealed that the Renewed Hope Initiative spent N2.55 billion to procure the customised products from Uniglory Nigeria Limited, a local manufacturing company based in Ikorodu, Lagos.

The First Lady called on local government chairmen to take ownership of the programme and ensure proper distribution. She also urged corporate organisations, government agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative so that more girls could be reached.

She appealed to traditional, religious, and community leaders to monitor the distribution process, while encouraging beneficiaries to stay in school and pursue their dreams. “Support one another and never allow shame or stigma to take away your confidence. You are the future of this nation, and I believe in you,” she told the girls.

In his welcome address, Lagos Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, represented by Permanent Secretary Abisola Adegbite, commended the First Lady for the initiative. He said the programme underscored the importance of girl-child education and addressed long-standing challenges faced by girls in understanding and managing their menstrual cycles.