The Shamies Unusual Heart Foundation, in partnership with Pad-Up Africa, has marked the 2026 Menstrual Hygiene Day with an advocacy walk and the distribution of hygiene kits to 100 disadvantaged girls and women in Abuja.
The event, held at Millennium Park under the global theme “#PeriodFriendlyWorld,” also featured the Walk4Pad 2026 campaign aimed at raising awareness on menstrual health and reducing stigma around menstruation.
Speaking at the event, the acting Executive Director of the Foundation, John Olugbemi, said the initiative was designed to promote education and address misinformation surrounding menstrual hygiene. He noted that many girls still face “period poverty” due to the high cost of sanitary products, calling for stronger government intervention and public support.
He explained that the foundation, working alongside Pad-Up Africa, was committed to ensuring that girls have access to dignity packs and proper menstrual care products.
Executive Director of Pad-Up Africa, Ashley Olachi Lori, emphasized the need for continuous education in schools, improved sanitation facilities, and gender-sensitive toilets. She stressed that menstruation is natural and should not be associated with shame or discrimination.
Lori also announced that about 1,000 girls across four rural schools will benefit from this year’s outreach through pad distribution and training on reusable sanitary pad production and maintenance.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the programme, with one participant, Faleye Eniola, describing it as empowering but urging that sanitary products be made more affordable due to rising costs.
Other speakers, including the founder of Lokas Intercontinental Sons of Tomorrow Initiative, called for greater involvement of boys and young men in ending menstrual stigma and promoting gender respect.
Organisers say the campaign will continue across communities to improve menstrual health awareness and support vulnerable girls.
