Female students of Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Ojo, Lagos, have received vital training on menstrual hygiene and reproductive health. The initiative titled ‘Pad Up a Girl’, was held with the theme, ‘Provide Menstrual Hygiene Education to Young Adults’.
It was organised as a Community Social Responsibility (CSR) project by Cerba Lancet Nigeria to dispel menstrual myths and equip young girls with accurate, practical knowledge on how to maintain proper hygiene during their periods.
Speaking at the event, Medical Director and Senior Pathologist at Cerba Lancet Nigeria, Dr. Fred-John Obiajulu, emphasised the importance of empowering the girl child with health education.
“A healthy girl child means a healthy society. Any society that suppresses the girl child never progresses,” he said. Obiajulu explained that the programme was more than just lectures, adding that it was an interactive engagement that allowed girls to ask questions, receive guidance, and gain confidence about their bodies.
He also addressed Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), describing it as a hormonal disorder affecting menstruation and overall reproductive health, and urged girls to seek proper medical care when needed.
The students were taught the importance of changing pads at least three times a day, or more during heavy flow, bathing regularly, and disposing used sanitary products properly.
They learned that pads should be wrapped and thrown in a bin, never flushed, to prevent clogging toilets.
Commandant, Nigerian Navy Secondary School, YM Haruna, said the event created a safe space for the students to learn and ask questions about topics often considered taboo.
“Some students asked about menstrual pain, hygiene, and even sex education. We’ll continue to sensitise them and incorporate these themes into school debates and quizzes to promote engagement,” he added.
Head of Business Development at Cerba Lancet Nigeria, Timitope Ambrose, noted that the initiative began eight years ago from a strong belief that every girl child, especially in underprivileged communities, deserves access to essential health education.
“We aim to continue expanding our reach and empower more girls with knowledge that will help them stay healthy and confident,” he said.
Matron of the school, Mrs. Janet Musa, said the programme was timely and impactful, especially for young girls navigating puberty.
She noted that the students now understand how to track their menstrual cycles and recognise when irregularities are normal or may require medical attention.
