By JKNewsMedia
PIONEERING EFFORTS to combat monthly period poverty are set to launch in Nigeria, spearheaded by the “PAD Me A Girl Initiative” in partnership with Access Bank Plc.
The ‘Pad Bank’ project aims to provide free sanitary pads to girls and women in need, addressing the widespread issue of menstrual hygiene insecurity.
Founded by renowned journalist and Editor-in-Chief of GATMASH NEWS, Theresa Moses, the initiative seeks to bridge the critical gap in menstrual health support for underprivileged communities.
Millions of Nigerian women and girls face difficulties in accessing sanitary products, often leading to health risks and school absenteeism.
Beyond supplying essential hygiene products, the initiative will also provide educational materials and extend support to girls and women residing in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
Partner organisations include Checkers Custard, Empowered Girls for Christ Foundation, Jeffrey Kuraun Foundation, ProStar, and Vita Baites Foods, among others.
The Pad Bank, an innovative concept designed to store and distribute sanitary pads, will be stocked through donations from Access Bank, corporate entities, and individuals.
The project targets an annual distribution of over one million pads, ensuring continued support for those in need.
“We are excited to partner with Access Bank to launch the Pad Bank,” said Theresa Moses, Convener of the PAD Me A Girl Initiative. “This initiative is a game-changer in the fight against period poverty, providing a safe and accessible space for girls and women to obtain sanitary pads with dignity.”
Access PAD Me A Girl aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable education, and SDG 5, which promotes gender equality.
By offering both menstrual hygiene products and educational materials such as exercise books and pens, the initiative aims to empower women and girls to achieve their full potential.
The launch events for the Pad Bank will take place on April 3, 2025, at Gofye Community, Kuje Area Council, New Kunchingoro, Opposite Games Village, Kaura, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.
A second event is scheduled for April 5, 2025, at Ortese IDP Camp, Guma LGA, Benue State, the bank states.
It also noted that with strategic backing and widespread support, the Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative has become a significant step towards eradicating period poverty in Nigeria, towards fostering empowerment, education, and dignity for women and girls nationwide.
