NAWOJ, Kaduna 1st lady intensify menstrual hygiene campaign among schoolgirls

The Kaduna State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady of Kaduna State, has intensified efforts to promote menstrual hygiene awareness among female students through sensitisation and support initiatives.

The campaign was carried out during a menstrual hygiene awareness programme held at Government Secondary School, Aliyu Dogo, Unguwan Kanawa, Kaduna, as part of activities marking World Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of NAWOJ in Kaduna State, Mrs Sahura Maidoki, said the association remained committed to educating young girls on proper menstrual hygiene practices despite the global observance having taken place in May.

According to her, the outreach was designed to equip schoolgirls with practical knowledge on personal hygiene and menstrual health to enable them manage their menstrual cycle safely and confidently.

“Last month was set aside globally to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day, and we are continuing the advocacy to ensure more girls benefit from the campaign.

“We engaged a healthcare professional to educate the students on how to take care of themselves, especially during menstruation,” she said.

Maidoki explained that the initiative also included the distribution of sanitary pads to selected students to support those facing challenges accessing menstrual hygiene products due to economic constraints.

She said the intervention was made possible through support from the First Lady of Kaduna State, Hajiya Hafsat Uba Sani.

“While the sanitary pads may not be sufficient for every student, we believe that those who benefit will apply the knowledge gained and also share it with others in their communities,” she added.

A Primary Healthcare Officer from Badarawa, Mrs Fatima Sani, who facilitated the health session, educated the students on menstrual hygiene management, infection prevention and proper use of sanitary pads.

She also guided the students on recognising signs of infection, maintaining proper personal hygiene, cleaning underwear appropriately and ensuring safe disposal of used sanitary products.

Sani further enlightened the students on understanding the menstrual cycle and managing common symptoms experienced before and during menstruation.

Also speaking, a teacher and mentor at the school, Mrs Salamatu Hassan, commended the organisers for the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.

She noted that many students often felt uncomfortable discussing issues related to reproductive health and personal hygiene.

According to her, the sensitisation created an opportunity for students to ask questions and gain practical knowledge in a supportive environment.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to NAWOJ and the Office of the First Lady for the intervention.

They said the programme had improved their understanding of menstrual hygiene and personal health, while the sanitary pads distributed would assist them in maintaining good hygiene practices.

The students also pledged to share the lessons learnt with their peers and family members.