Abuja, Nigeria — On May 28, 2025, the PACTPAN Nigeria team visited Junior Secondary School in Zhidu Village, Lugbe, Abuja, to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day. The initiative aimed to educate and empower adolescent girls on menstrual health under the global theme: “Together for a Period-Friendly World: Break the Silence, Break the Stigma.”
Led by Edelquinn Akighir, Assistant Program Director, the session addressed key topics such as understanding the menstrual cycle, practicing proper hygiene, debunking common myths, and building confidence in managing menstruation. Akighir emphasized the importance of recognizing menstruation as a natural biological process, explaining how the female body prepares monthly for pregnancy, and how menstrual bleeding occurs when pregnancy does not take place.
The participants were taught essential hygiene practices, including:
• Changing sanitary pads every 4–6 hours
• Washing hands before and after changing pads
• Cleaning the genital area with warm water
• Wearing breathable cotton underwear
• Bathing at least twice a day to maintain freshness and prevent infections
The session also challenged social misconceptions surrounding menstruation. “Menstruation is not a taboo,” said Akighir. “Exercise can actually help relieve cramps, and periods are a healthy sign of growth.
To further promote dignity and confidence, she encouraged the girls to:
• Track their menstrual cycles
• Carry sanitary products at all times
• Maintain healthy nutrition
• Communicate openly with trusted adults
“You are not alone. Mistakes are part of learning,” she told the students. “What matters most is staying confident and believing in your strength and future.”
The event received a warm welcome from the school’s Vice Principal (Admin), Mr. Edet, and other staff members who expressed deep appreciation to PACTPAN Nigeria for the impactful intervention.
A major highlight of the event was the distribution of sanitary pads and bars of Sanitol soap. The gifts were received with excitement and gratitude, as the girls expressed heartfelt thanks for the thoughtful support.
PACTPAN Nigeria Team at the Event:
• Edelquinn Akighir – Assistant Program Director
• Ihuoma Celestine – PACTPAN Youth Representative
• Rita – Representative, St. Justin Outstation, Peace Village
This outreach underscores PACTPAN Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to empowering young girls, building a network of faith-driven leaders, and promoting community development through education, health awareness, and social advocacy.
PACTPAN Nigeria extends its sincere appreciation to all individuals who contributed to the success of this initiative, and to its partners—both current and prospective—for their continued and future support in related projects.
Contact Information:
📧 Email: nigeria@pactpan.org
📞 Phone: +234 803 318 3707
🌐 Website: www.pactpan.org
Reported by Edelquinn Akighir – Pactpan Nigeria, Assistant Program Director
