Anambra First Lady Nonye Soludo Promotes Menstrual Hygiene, Distributes Sanitary Pads to Schoolgirls

Ms Nonye Soludo, the first lady of Anambra State, has renewed her call for improved menstrual hygiene management while distributing sanitary pads to schoolgirls across the state as part of efforts to address period poverty and reduce stigma around menstruation.

Speaking during a World Menstrual Hygiene Day event held on May 28, 2026, at the Light House in Awka, Ms Nonye said menstruation should not be treated as a taboo or a source of discrimination, stressing that it is a natural biological process that every girl and woman should experience with dignity.

She addressed over 2,000 students drawn from secondary schools across Anambra State, urging them to reject harmful myths and cultural stigma associated with menstruation and to prioritise proper hygiene during their monthly cycles.

The first lady also highlighted her ongoing intervention under the “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” initiative, through which she has established sanitary pad banks in hundreds of secondary schools across the state to ensure girls have access to menstrual hygiene products when needed.

According to her, the initiative has expanded significantly, with more than 350 pad banks established in schools and periodic distribution of sanitary products to support students, particularly in rural communities where access to sanitary pads remains limited.

She explained that the programme is designed to reduce absenteeism among schoolgirls, restore confidence, and ensure that menstruation does not disrupt education.

The event formed part of activities marking World Menstrual Hygiene Day, which is observed annually on May 28 to raise awareness about menstrual health and break stigma surrounding menstruation.