CALDEV Africa purchases 500 copies of the book, while government, traditional institutions and corporate partners pledge support for menstrual dignity and an end to period stigma.
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Lola Cater Foundation has unveiled an ambitious plan to reach 5,000 girls across Nigeria with menstrual health education, books and hygiene support by May 28, 2027.
The announcement was made by the Foundation’s Chief Executive Director, Ms. Ololade Ogunnubi, at the SHE IS READY 2026 event held on October 28 in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child. The event also featured the official launch of her book, My First Period: A Young Girl’s Guide to Confidence, Courage and Growing Up.
A major highlight was the support of Hon. Bamidele Salam, Member representing Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency of Osun State, and Founder of the Children of Africa Leadership and Values Development Initiative (CALDEV Africa), who facilitated the purchase of 500 copies of the newly launched book to expand access to menstrual health education.
Speaking at the event, Ogunnubi said the initiative builds on the Foundation’s six years of community outreach and school-based engagements, through which it has reached over 20,000 people across more than 15 states.
She noted that these engagements had exposed persistent misconceptions, inadequate menstrual health knowledge and the stigma surrounding menstruation.
According to her, menstrual health education must go beyond the distribution of sanitary products to include accurate information, confidence-building and open conversations involving girls, boys, parents and teachers.
She explained that My First Period was developed as a practical resource to help young girls understand puberty, menstruation, personal hygiene and the emotional changes associated with growing up, while supporting parents, teachers and other trusted adults in guiding them.
Government and traditional institutions endorse collective action
Representatives of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare commended the Foundation for its commitment to girls’ health and empowerment.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, represented by Mr. Emmanuel Essien, called for increased investment in menstrual health education, essential hygiene resources and supportive environments where girls can discuss menstruation without shame.
Similarly, the Head of the Adolescent and School Health Branch of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Joy Kalu, represented by Charity Okala, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among government, schools, parents and development partners to ensure that young people have access to accurate health information.
Representing the Association of Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers (WOFCTTRA), Patricia Narai, wife of the Sakari of Karu, also called for more open conversations about menstruation, stressing the importance of preparing girls with the right information before their first period.
She encouraged parents and community leaders to create supportive environments where girls can ask questions freely and access reliable guidance.
Corporate partners strengthen the initiative
The Foundation acknowledged the support of Softcare Nigeria, which provided sanitary pads and wipes for menstrual hygiene kits distributed to participants.
Special appreciation was extended to Mr. Osasona Dolapo, Softcare’s representative, who travelled all the way from Lagos to Abuja to attend the event and facilitate the company’s support. The Foundation described his presence and commitment as a valued demonstration of corporate partnership and support for the well-being of the girl child.
The Foundation also appreciated 7Up Bottling Company for providing drinks and bottled water for participants and guests, contributing to the success of the event.
Another significant show of support came from Hon. Bamidele Salam and CALDEV Africa through the purchase of 500 copies of My First Period, demonstrating the important role of public leadership and development organisations in advancing children’s well-being.
A national call to action
The SHE IS READY 2026 event featured an educational session on puberty, menstruation and confidence, a panel discussion themed “Creating a World Where Every Girl Is Ready”, and interactive activities encouraging girls to speak openly about their experiences.
Looking ahead, the Foundation is calling on government institutions, corporate organisations, development partners, schools, healthcare professionals, traditional institutions and individuals to support its target of reaching 5,000 girls by May 28, 2027.
The initiative will focus particularly on underserved, rural and displaced communities, as well as girls living with disabilities, through book distribution, menstrual hygiene support and school- and community-based education.
Ogunnubi emphasised that preparing girls for menstruation is a shared responsibility.
“Every girl deserves to meet her first period with knowledge, dignity, confidence and support. We cannot achieve this alone. It will take parents, schools, government, traditional institutions, healthcare professionals and corporate organisations working together,” she said.
Individuals and organisations can support the initiative by sponsoring copies of My First Period at ₦3,000 per copy, donating menstrual hygiene kits or establishing partnerships with the Foundation.
The Foundation’s vision is to build a society where no girl is made to feel ashamed of a natural stage of growing up and where every girl has the knowledge, confidence and support she needs to thrive.
ENDS
About Lola Cater Foundation
Lola Cater Foundation is a Nigerian social development organisation committed to advancing education, youth empowerment and community development. Through its programmes and initiatives, the Foundation works to create opportunities and improve the well-being of children, young people and underserved communities.
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Lola Cater Foundation
Email: admin@lolacaterfoundation.org
Website: www.lolacaterfoundation.org
Phone: +234 803 633 4600
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