By Prosper Mene
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the nationwide “Flow with Confidence” initiative under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), committing N2.55 billion to distribute a one-year supply of disposable sanitary pads to 370,000 schoolgirls in rural communities across the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the launch event in Gombe on Thursday, Tinubu emphasized the initiative’s role in combating period poverty and ensuring girls do not miss school due to lack of access to menstrual hygiene products. “In today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because she cannot afford sanitary products,” she stated, highlighting how many rural schoolgirls resort to unsafe alternatives or drop out altogether, perpetuating cycles of inequality.
The pads, procured from Uniglory Nigeria Limited in Ikorodu, Lagos, will be distributed freely through state first ladies and RHI coordinators, with each state and the FCT receiving 10,000 packs targeting vulnerable girls.
Tinubu, who was represented by state first ladies at various simultaneous events including in Lagos and Imo, stressed the health benefits of disposable pads over reusable options, which she described as potentially dangerous for young girls’ reproductive well-being.
She warned against any diversion or sale of the pads, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads to monitor distribution to ensure they reach intended beneficiaries.
The First Lady also called on corporate organizations and philanthropists to support scaling the program, noting that full nationwide coverage could require up to N600 billion.
The initiative is in synce with broader efforts to promote girl-child education and menstrual health, addressing a critical barrier where girls miss up to several school days monthly.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa and Coordinating Minister for Health Prof. Ali Pate pledged federal support to expand its reach, while Gombe Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya commended Tinubu’s interventions in health, education, and empowerment.
During her visit, Tinubu was honored with the traditional title of Sarauniya Yakin Kumo (Queen Warrior of Kumo) by the Emir of Akko.
Attendees, including schoolgirls and officials, hailed the program as transformative. “This will restore confidence and protect our educational journey,” one beneficiary shared, echoing Tinubu’s vision of empowering girls through dignity and access.
The launch coincides with ongoing RHI efforts, which have already extended similar support to 12 states at a cost exceeding N2 billion.
