In a powerful drive to combat menstrual poverty and restore dignity to internally displaced girls and women, the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative” has reached over 2,000 beneficiaries across IDP camps in Abuja and Benue State with reusable sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene education.
Organized by Gatmash Media in collaboration with Access Bank and other corporate sponsors, the initiative is changing the narrative around menstruation for displaced Nigerian girls, many of whom have long endured the indignity and health risks of using unsafe materials during their periods.
“For us, this is more than just pads — it’s about dignity, education, and empowerment,” said Theresa Moses, the convener of the initiative. “We’ve launched the Pad Bank to ensure girls in underserved communities have consistent, free access to reusable sanitary pads.”
Breaking the Silence on Menstrual Poverty
At just 14, Farida Abubakar, a resident of the Area 1 IDP Camp in Abuja, shared her painful monthly experience:
“When I get my period, I use pieces of old cloth because I can’t afford sanitary pads,” she said, her voice heavy with frustration.
Sewuese Terfa, 16, from the Ortese IDP Camp in Benue, echoed the same reality:
“Sanitary pads are a luxury. I have to eat first before thinking about my period.”
Their stories are not isolated. Across Nigeria, millions of girls and women face similar challenges. Period poverty disrupts education, diminishes self-esteem, and puts girls at risk of infections and humiliation.
Reusable Pads, Sustainable Impact
The Access PAD Me A Girl project distributes reusable, eco-friendly pads that can last for months — a practical and sustainable alternative to costly disposables. Girls are also educated on how to use, clean, and maintain the pads, promoting long-term hygiene.
The initiative is aligned with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including:
Access Bank has played a key role in funding the project and helping establish the Pad Bank, a mechanism for the consistent supply of sanitary materials to IDP communities.
Voices of Gratitude and Hope
“I’m grateful for the pads. I can now go to school without fear,” said Joy Terseer, a 12-year-old IDP girl.
“I feel confident and proud again,” added Hadiza Ibrahim, 15. “I’m no longer held back by shame or fear during my period.”
Lizzy Asan, Benue State coordinator of the initiative, noted the transformation in girls’ confidence and health.
“This project has brought more than pads—it’s brought hope and dignity.”
Mrs. Liyatu Yusuf, Women Leader at the Durumi IDP Camp, and Alhaji Ibrahim Amadu, Camp Chairman, also praised the program’s life-changing impact, calling it “a game-changer” for the community.
Corporate Support: Nutrition and Dignity Hand in Hand
In addition to sanitary care, the initiative has received support from companies like:
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Checkers Custard, which provides food relief and nutritional support with its custard and pap flavors.
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Vita Baites Foods, producers of nutritious peanut-based kuli-kuli snacks.
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Pro Star, a sportswear brand promoting wellness and empowerment.
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Jeffery Kuaran Foundation, Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), and several anonymous donors have also backed the project.
Looking Ahead
With plans to expand to more states, the Access PAD Me A Girl initiative is not just a charity campaign — it is a movement toward period equity and a reminder that one pad can change a life.
“We’re not just donating pads. We’re creating opportunities for girls to live with dignity, stay in school, and reach their potential,” Theresa Moses concluded.
