The Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) has intensified efforts to address period poverty and promote menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls with a sensitisation programme held in Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State.
The intervention, tagged “Understanding Menstruation,” took place on Sunday at Grooves Memorial Methodist Church in Ikot Ekpene and drew participants from Ikot Ekpene, Obot Akara and Essien Udim Local Government Areas.
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Akwa Ibom State and Chairman of the GIFA Board of Trustees, Helen Eno Obareki, described period poverty as a silent challenge affecting the confidence, education and future of many young girls.
Addressing about 500 selected secondary school girls and church members, Obareki said menstruation is a natural and healthy part of womanhood and should never be associated with shame, fear or stigma.
She said, “No girl should have to miss school, feel ashamed, or be held back simply because of her period,” urging the girls to ask questions and seek guidance on reproductive health issues.
She stressed the importance of proper education, access to sanitary materials and supportive environments that enable girls to manage menstruation with dignity and confidence.
According to her, the programme was not limited to the distribution of sanitary products but also focused on equipping young girls with knowledge of menstrual hygiene management, healthy living and self-confidence.
Obareki also urged teachers, guardians and caregivers to create safe spaces where girls can openly discuss menstrual and reproductive health matters without fear or embarrassment.
“Let us replace myths with medical facts and silence with absolute support,” she stated.
