In celebration of Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, Hon. Aishat Hamzat, the Oyo Central representative at the Nigerian Youth Parliament, embarked on an impactful outreach campaign targeting girls and women in rural areas and special schools across the senatorial district.
The multi-day initiative, which commenced on May 26 and concluded on May 28, featured visits to various locations including Community Special School in Bioku Aladun, Akanran and Amuloko Community respectively. Activities included health education sessions, interactive health talks, and the distribution of sanitary products. During a dedicated question-and-answer segment, underprivileged girls and women also received tokens of support.
Guest speaker, Hon. Popoola Zainab, lauded the initiative, praising Hon. Hamzat for her foresight and commitment. She emphasized the lasting impact such programs have on beneficiaries and urged students to prioritize menstrual hygiene and overall wellness.
Speaking to the press, Hon. Hamzat stressed the importance of breaking the silence and dismantling the stigma surrounding menstruation, especially within underserved communities.
“Menstruation is a natural process, not a taboo. Unfortunately, many girls bleed in silence due to shame, misinformation, or poverty. It is our duty to break this silence and ensure that every girl can manage her period with dignity,” she stated.
She further noted that “Menstrual hygiene is not a luxury—it’s a right. When we invest in the wellbeing of our girls by providing knowledge and access to proper sanitary care, we uplift their health, education, and future.”
According to Hon. Hamzat, the outreach impacted over 2,000 girls and women, equipping them not only with essential sanitary materials but also with accurate reproductive health information. She expressed deep gratitude to her team of volunteers, Dr Ezekiel Temitope (OTOPE), The CEO, Blissfarm Bar & Kitchen, Hon. Ife Akande, Asoju Odo Alawode, Hon Dabo Ramota (Rad),Olamix international and Prince Deji Ola amongst others, emphasizing that the greatest act of kindness is reaching out to the most vulnerable.
One of the beneficiaries, Miss Modupe, expressed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the participants. She praised Hon. Aishat for her compassion and efforts, noting that the initiative empowered them with knowledge and renewed confidence in confronting menstrual stigma. She encouraged other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the gesture, highlighting how much had been achieved with limited resources.
