In commemoration of International Women’s Day, a socio-political group, Cross River Jewels, has distributed sanitary pads to 1,000 female students across five secondary schools in Calabar, Cross River State, in a major push to promote menstrual health and support girls’ education.
The initiative, which targeted students in Government Secondary School, Barracks Road; Government Secondary School, State Housing; Government Technical School, Mayne Avenue; Government Secondary School, TTC Ikot Ansa; and Government Secondary School, Atu, provided each beneficiary with a three-month supply of sanitary products.
The Director General of the association, Comrade Precious Besong, led the outreach alongside members of her team, ensuring the successful distribution of the hygiene materials to students.
According to the organizers, the project was conceived to address the financial and emotional challenges many young girls face during their menstrual cycles, especially in communities where the cost of sanitary products remains a burden.
“The pads are expected to serve each student for three months, supporting the young girls in pursuing their academic goals without interruption or stress,” the group stated.
Beyond the distribution of sanitary products, the event featured health education sessions focused on personal hygiene, body confidence, and the importance of maintaining academic consistency during menstrual cycles. Facilitators encouraged the students to remain confident and committed to their studies regardless of their monthly flow.
The campaign attracted attention beyond Cross River State, drawing support from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District. The senator reportedly provided financial support after learning about the initiative during its pre-event publicity.
Besong, speaking in a telephone interview after the event, expressed gratitude for the senator’s intervention and support.
“Seeing these young girls so excited and relieved is truly one of my proudest moments,” Besong said. “This has become an annual tradition for Cross River Jewels, and we remain committed to supporting communities and empowering the girl child.”
She added: “Even though Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not from Cross River State, she recognized the importance of this cause and provided financial support to strengthen our efforts. I sincerely thank her and pray that the Almighty continues to bless her.”
Some of the beneficiaries also expressed appreciation to the organizers, describing the outreach as timely support that would help them focus on their education without worrying about menstrual hygiene needs.
Cross River Jewels said the initiative forms part of its ongoing commitment to promoting the welfare and empowerment of young girls, noting that no student should miss school due to a lack of basic menstrual hygiene products.
