Access Bank, GATMASH MEDIA Launch ‘PAD Bank’ to Tackle Menstrual Poverty at Abuja IDP Camp
ABUJA/Nigeria: Access Bank Plc, in partnership with “PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” a project of GATMASH MEDIA, has launched a ‘Pad Bank’ at the Area 1 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Durumi, Abuja, to provide free sanitary pads for girls and women.
The initiative, launched on April 3, 2025, is designed to address menstrual poverty by ensuring access to reusable sanitary pads and promoting menstrual hygiene awareness.
Theresa Moses, Convener of the “PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” in her remarks, underscored the importance of menstrual hygiene and urged young girls and women to prioritize their health. She described the project as a major step toward reducing menstrual poverty and enhancing hygiene education.
She highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that about 37% of menstruating girls and women in Nigeria lack access to sanitary pads due to financial constraints. She stressed that the project aims to educate them on proper menstrual hygiene practices while dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.
“The ‘PAD Bank’ will provide reusable sanitary pads, reducing waste and promoting sustainability while making menstrual products freely accessible,” Moses stated. “This initiative seeks to break the silence surrounding menstruation, fostering open discussions and a culture of support.”
Parenting Coach, Mrs. Blessing Jonah Amos, led an informative session on menstrual hygiene, the use of reusable sanitary pads, and healthy lifestyle practices. Additionally, the Divisional Police Officer of Area 1, CSP Ola Rotimi Ebidero, provided security tips to women and young girls, urging them to report suspicious activities to the police.
The Access Bank-backed initiative has partnered with several organizations, including Checkers Custard, which distributed its products, Vita Baites Foods, makers of ‘kuli-kuli,’ and the Jeffrey Kuraun Foundation, among others.
During the event, exercise books, writing materials, cartons of instant noodles, and bags of sachet water were distributed to beneficiaries.
The launch of the ‘PAD Bank’ marks a significant step in tackling menstrual poverty and expanding menstrual hygiene education. The initiative aims to extend its impact by reaching more communities, ensuring young girls and women have unhindered access to menstrual hygiene products and support.
By fostering partnerships with organizations and individuals, the “PAD Me A Girl Initiative” is working towards a society where menstrual hygiene is prioritized, empowering young girls and women to thrive without limitations.
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