The Menstrual Hygiene Support Initiative championed by Nigeria’s First Lady has reached hundreds of young beneficiaries in Akwa Ibom State. A total of 320 adolescent girls and young women in Itu Local Government Area received sanitary pads, hygiene materials, and menstrual health education under the “Flow with Confidence” campaign.
The programme formed part of activities marking the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day and aimed to promote menstrual health awareness while reducing the stigma often associated with menstruation.
Programme Supports Girls Across Itu Communities
The event took place at the Itu Local Government Council Secretariat in Mbak Atai. Organisers brought together students, community leaders, and health advocates to promote better menstrual hygiene practices.
The programme was coordinated by Mrs. Idongesit Ubong Nkutt, wife of the Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council.
Speaking during the event, Mrs. Nkutt explained that the campaign seeks to equip girls with knowledge and resources that help them manage their menstrual health with confidence.
She said the initiative also encourages open discussions about menstruation and challenges harmful misconceptions that affect young women.
Campaign Aligns With Oluremi Tinubu’s Vision
According to Mrs. Nkutt, the “Flow with Confidence” campaign reflects the goals of the Renewed Hope Initiative championed by Oluremi Tinubu.
The initiative advocates improved menstrual health and hygiene for girls across Nigeria.
She disclosed that the sanitary pads distributed during the programme were supplied through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
Mrs. Nkutt praised the First Lady for supporting efforts that promote the wellbeing, dignity, and confidence of young girls.
The campaign also seeks to ensure that menstruation does not become a barrier to education or personal development.
Beneficiaries Drawn From Schools and Student Groups
The Menstrual Hygiene Support Initiative reached students from both public and private schools within Itu Local Government Area.
Organisers selected beneficiaries from 10 public secondary schools and five private secondary schools. Each school nominated 20 girls to participate in the programme.
In addition, 20 female undergraduates of Itu origin under the National Association of Itu Students Worldwide received support through the initiative.
The broad selection process ensured that girls from different educational backgrounds benefited from the programme.
Health Expert Educates Participants
A key feature of the event was a health education session led by Ms. Glory Ekanem.
During her presentation, she educated participants on menstrual hygiene management and healthy practices during menstruation.
She highlighted the importance of personal hygiene, proper sanitary product usage, and awareness of reproductive health issues.
The session also encouraged participants to seek accurate information about menstrual health and avoid common myths.
Many attendees described the lecture as informative and beneficial.
Additional Hygiene Materials Distributed
Beyond the sanitary pads supplied through the Renewed Hope Initiative, beneficiaries also received other hygiene products.
The Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, Hon. Ubong Nkutt, provided several essential items to support the girls.
These materials included detergents, sponges, pant hangers, and shaving sticks.
Organisers said the additional supplies would help beneficiaries maintain proper personal hygiene and improve their overall wellbeing.
The symbolic distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene materials formed one of the highlights of the programme.
Stakeholders Commend the Initiative
Mrs. Nkutt expressed gratitude to Oluremi Tinubu and Lady Helen Obareki, the First Lady Designate of Akwa Ibom State, for supporting the campaign.
She also commended Hon. Ubong Nkutt for contributing resources that helped ensure the programme’s success.
Several notable women leaders attended the event.
Among them were Hon. Helen Nta, Vice Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, Obonganwan Grace Ekong, former Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, and Dr. Ekaette Ebong Okon, a former member of the State House of Assembly.
Councillors, supervisors, women leaders, and community stakeholders also participated in the programme.
The Menstrual Hygiene Support Initiative has provided critical support to 320 girls and young women in Itu Local Government Area. Through sanitary pad distribution, health education, and hygiene awareness, the programme aims to improve menstrual health management and empower young women.
As efforts continue under the Renewed Hope Initiative, stakeholders hope more girls across Nigeria will gain access to the resources and knowledge needed to manage their menstrual health with confidence and dignity.
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