The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), led by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a major menstrual health program titled “Flow With Confidence.”
The intervention aims to empower schoolgirls in underserved rural areas across the nation by providing them with essential hygiene products.
The program targets 370,000 beneficiaries nationally, with each girl receiving a one-year supply of disposable sanitary pads.
The initiative seeks to promote hygiene, boost self-esteem, and significantly reduce school absenteeism often caused by menstrual stigma.
The launch was held simultaneously across seven states—Borno, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kebbi, and Lagos.
In Borno State, the First Lady was represented at the Maiduguri launch by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima.
Speaking at the official event, Senator Tinubu emphasized that no girl should miss school or suffer indignity because they lack access to menstrual hygiene products.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to “not allow shame or stigma affect Your Confidence,” urging them to pursue their dreams as future leaders.
Each of the participating states will benefit 10,000 girls, with a deliberate focus on communities identified as most in need.
The First Lady called on corporate organizations, traditional rulers, and community leaders to ensure the transparent implementation of the program.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by Deputy Governor Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, applauded the Federal Government for prioritizing initiatives that restore dignity and empower families.
He specifically commended the First Lady for addressing critical issues related to girls’ reproductive health.
The Wife of the Borno State Governor and RHI Coordinator, Dr. Falmata Umara Zulum, noted that the program complements the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Initiative in uplifting vulnerable groups.
In addition to the menstrual health intervention, assorted food items were also distributed to vulnerable populations and persons with disabilities under the RHI Monthly Food Outreach Scheme, which commenced in March 2024.
