By Gami Tadanyigbe

The Julebrama Women and Children Initiative (JUWACI) in partnership with Ambulance Academy, Mee & Cee Development Foundation, Advocacy for the Protection of the Reproductive Rights of Women and Sure Start Initiative on Wednesday, 28th May 2025, marked the World Menstrual Hygiene Day with an outreach to three Junior Secondary Schools in the FCT.

The commonmeration with the Theme titled Around “Awareness and Dignity” reached over 300 schoolgirls at Junior Secondary School (JSS) Karomajigi, Junior Secondary School (JSS) Piwoyi, and Junior Secoundary School (JSS) Giri all within the FCT to educate girls on proper menstrual hygiene and address common myths surrounding menstruation.

Chief Mrs. Jennifer Hembafan Alih, Executive Director of Julebrama Women and Children Initiative (JUWACI), during the outreach called on the necessity of normalizing menstruation conversations and ensuring girls have access to the knowledge and tools they need.

Chief Jennifer Alih also emphasised on her vision to see a future where no girl is constrained by her menstruation. “We are committed to dismantling stigma and replacing them with empowerment, dignity, and informed choices.” She said.

Ms. Chy Ogamba, Founder of Mee and Cee Development Foundation, emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges girl children face during menstruation. “It’s essential to empower them with knowledge and skills to manage their periods with confidence,” she stated.

Mrs Onyinyechi Cindy-Ogah Chikwere in her speech said “Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet millions of girls face stigma, shame, and barriers that hinder their education and self-esteem”. Today’s outreach is a powerful step toward breaking these taboos and ensuring that every girl has the knowledge, confidence, and resources to manage her period with dignity. Together, we must continue to push for policies and environments that support menstrual health education and provide safe, inclusive spaces where no girl is left behind simply because of her cycle.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Vivian Amalu, Project Coordinator for Mee & Cee Development Foundation, highlighted the need to break the silence surrounding menstruation. “We must educate girls about menstrual hygiene, encourage them to ask questions, and help them develop good habits.” She said.

On her part, Binta Bamali of Sure Start Initiative mentioned. “By promoting menstrual hygiene, we can empower girls to take control of their bodies, build their self-esteem, and reach their full potential,” she said.

Avertse Emmanuel, Director of Operations/Database for the Ambulance Academy, said that, “On behalf of Ambulance Academy, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us in commemorating World Menstrual Hygiene Day in collaboration with JUWACI. “Together, we are building a more informed and compassionate society. At Ambulance Academy we will continue to champion menstrual health awareness campaigns in our communities. Thank you for being part of this meaningful cause and celebration.” He said.

In her Vote of thanks, Miss Veronica Iji Odu, communications officer with JUWACI said that “Your presence and support have made this event impactful and inspiring. Special thanks to our partners, speakers, volunteers, and participants who contributed to raising awareness about menstrual hygiene, breaking stigmas, and promoting dignity and health for all, especially for women and girls.

Sideline of the event featured, interactive sessions with health professionals, questions and answers sessions, and sanitary pads were distributed to promote openness and confidence among the students.