Girls from different schools across Adamawa State gathered for a bold and inspiring event that shattered myths and silence around menstruation. The celebration of Menstrual Hygiene Day, held in Yola, brought together teenage girls, educators, and development partners to promote menstrual dignity, health, and education.

The event was organized through a strong partnership between UNFPA, the Adamawa State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, and the Gender-Based Violence Sector Working Group. Local organizations like REMI Educational Foundation and LCCN Cathedral Academy were fully represented.

A lead facilitator from LCCN commended the enthusiasm shown by the girls.

“Thank you very much indeed. We have celebrated the Menstrual Hygiene Day beautifully with you all,” she said. “I was watching everyone. Everybody was quite engaging. There were answers. There was fun. We appreciate the time you gave us.”

She added that period shaming must stop.

“We have seen you as ladies. We want you to understand and know that menstruation is not a problem. It is dignifying. It is womanhood,” she said passionately.

She shared a personal story about her first experience with menstruation.

“I remember when I saw my first period. I didn’t have the knowledge that most of you have now. I cried all day. I was ashamed. I was hiding. I thought I had done something wrong.”

With voices steady and eyes full of determination, the girls listened, learned, and responded.

“We’re sharing this knowledge so you don’t go through what I went through,” she said. “Now that we are distributing the dignity kits provided by UNFPA, please use them well. They are washable and hygienic.”

Another speaker reminded the students of the event’s message:

“As the name implies—dignity kits—you are dignified in your period. Don’t miss school. Don’t miss classes. There is no shame in your flow.”

After the educational session, the girls lined up to receive their dignity kits, which include reusable sanitary pads, soap, and other personal hygiene items. The goal: ensure that no girl misses school due to her period.

For many, the event wasn’t just about supplies. It was a breakthrough moment.

Mercy Solomon, a student from LCCN Cathedral Academy, opened up about how the dignity kits would help her:

“They will help me, like, sometimes that I don’t have pads. They will help me because I really need them,” she said. “Like maybe I don’t have enough, I can use them. They’ll be helpful to me.”

Mercy also confessed she was once scared of menstruation.

“Yes, I was scared sometimes, but now I’ve learned what I need to do, so I’m no longer scared,” she said confidently.

She added that she would love to learn even more.

“I really love taking myself to administration,” she said. “I need more information.”

Another student, Hanatu Hadison from REMI Educational Foundation, revealed that she used to experience irregular periods and felt alone and confused.

“Every April, I would not see my menstruation. I didn’t know why. I thought something was wrong with me,” she explained.

But this year, things changed.

“Since I joined this program, I’ve come to understand that it was simply lack of knowledge. Now I know it’s normal, and I feel okay.”

She also admitted that the uncertainty used to leave her depressed.

“But now, I’m not ashamed. I know my body better.”

The event successfully created a safe space where girls could speak freely and ask questions about menstruation, hygiene, and womanhood—topics that are often considered taboo in many homes and communities.

By the end of the event, the laughter was louder, and the shame was gone. The girls walked out not only with dignity kits in their hands but with dignity in their hearts.

Organizers say this is just the beginning. They believe that menstrual education should be continuous and integrated into school curriculums and community dialogue. Their mission is clear—no girl should ever feel dirty, less, or ashamed because of her period.

UNFPA and its partners say they remain committed to working with the Adamawa State government and local organizations to continue this life-changing work.