By Ovat Abeng
The Anambra State chapter of the City Boy Movement, a youth-driven support group advocating the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027, has distributed hundreds of sanitary pads to female students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik) Awka.
The distribution took place at the ASUU-Unizik conference hall, on Friday, as part of its activities to commemorate this year, 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration.
Speaking during the distribution, the State Woman leader, Mrs Ifeatu Adaora Soludo-Arinze, said the gesture was aimed at assisting and addressing the challenges including stigmatization some vulnerable female students face during their menstrual period on campuses.
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Mrs Soludo-Arinze who is also the founder of Gloria Foundation, described the City Boy Movement as more than a political support group, noting that it serves as a platform for youth mobilisation, health living, civic engagement and grassroots participation in national development.
According to her, the World Hygiene Day celebration/distribution also marks the beginning of a broader initiative designed to position the group as a unifying force and driver of positive social impact.
“I am truly delighted to be here with you as we mark Menstrual Hygiene Day, a day that reminds us of the importance of health, dignity, education, and confidence for every girl and every woman.
“Menstruation is a natural part of womanhood. It should never be treated as something shameful, embarrassing, or hidden. Yet sadly, many young girls still face challenges during their menstrual cycle because they lack access to sanitary products, proper information, or the support they need.
“Some girls even miss school, classes, and important activities simply because of menstrual-related difficulties. This is why gatherings like this matter.
“Menstrual hygiene is not just about the use of sanitary pads. It is about cleanliness, self-care, confidence, proper health education, and ensuring that no girl feels limited because of a natural biological process. To all the young ladies here today, I want to encourage you to take your personal hygiene seriously. Your health matters. Your dignity matters. Your dreams matter. As women and as leaders, we must also continue to support one another. No girl should feel ashamed to ask questions.
“No girl should feel alone. And no girl should have to choose between her education and her menstrual health.
“Beyond menstrual hygiene, I also want to encourage every eligible student here today to take another important step towards empowerment, which is active participation in our democracy. If you are 18 years and above, I encourage you to register and obtain your Permanent Voter’s Card, your PVC. Your vote is your voice, and your voice is your power.
“Young people, especially young women have a major role to play in shaping the future of our society. Do not sit back and allow others to make decisions about your future while you remain silent. Be informed. Be responsible. Be involved.
“To the young women here today, never underestimate yourselves. You are strong, intelligent, gifted, and capable of greatness. Our society needs your ideas, your leadership, your courage, and your contribution. Continue to believe in yourselves, pursue your dreams with confidence, and never allow anyone to make you feel small. I sincerely appreciate the Management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University for welcoming us warmly and supporting this initiative. I also appreciate everyone who helped to make this programme possible. To all the students here today, thank you for coming out. I pray that you continue to excel academically, grow in confidence, and become women who will positively impact your families, your communities, Anambra State, and Nigeria at large.
“As we leave here today, let us remember three things: take care of your health, protect your dignity, and use your voice, the woman leader further admonished.
One of the beneficiaries female student Edith Oguchukwu, who spoke on behalf of others, expressed appreciation for the gesture, describing it as timely supportive amidst hardship in Nigeria.
The event was also well attended by members of the group and thousands of female students within the University’s community.
