FIC Report (Edo State) – The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has reaffirmed her commitment to promoting menstrual health and the wellbeing of women and girls through the distribution of sanitary products to women associations and female support groups across the state.
The initiative, carried out through her pet project, the Better Life Empowerment and Care Foundation (BeLiFE & Care), formed part of activities marking the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration.
The distribution exercise took place at the Government House, May 28th, 2026 in Benin City, was designed to ensure that the sanitary products reach a wider Audience, particularly Girls and Women in Rural and underserved Communities. Beneficiary Groups were encouraged to extend the items to Schools, Markets, Religious Centres, and other Community-based Institutions across Edo State.
Addressing participants at the event, Mrs. Anani said this year’s global theme, “Together for a Period Friendly World,” underscores the need for collective action in breaking the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation while ensuring access to safe menstrual products, quality menstrual health education, and adequate sanitation facilities.
She emphasized that menstrual hygiene is a critical component of the health, dignity, and empowerment of women and girls, noting that no girl should be prevented from pursuing her education, aspirations, or daily activities because of challenges associated with menstruation.
According to her, the BeLiFE & Care Pad Bank Initiative demonstrates the foundation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable girls and women by providing essential menstrual hygiene products and creating awareness on proper menstrual health practices.
Mrs. Anani further urged young girls to adopt healthy menstrual hygiene habits and to discuss menstrual health issues openly without fear, embarrassment, or discrimination. She stressed the importance of creating supportive environments where girls can manage their menstrual health with confidence and dignity.
The Edo First Lady’s coordinator also called on stakeholders, community leaders, educational institutions, and development partners to join efforts aimed at building a Society where Menstruation is no longer a barrier to opportunity and personal development.
Beneficiaries of the initiative commended the gesture, describing it as both timely and impactful. Among those who expressed appreciation were the National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), represented by its Director of Welfare and Social Affairs for the South-South Zone, Comrade Johnson Esther Oyimeh, and the Girls Period Support Network led by Alao Oluwakemisola.
They praised Mrs. Anani for her continued advocacy and support for women and girls, noting that the donation would significantly ease the burden faced by many females, particularly those in rural communities where access to menstrual hygiene products remains limited.
The beneficiaries further stated that the initiative would help improve menstrual health awareness, boost confidence among young girls, and contribute to efforts aimed at eliminating period poverty across Edo State.
World Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on May 28 to raise awareness about the importance of menstrual health and hygiene, while advocating for policies and actions that ensure every girl and woman can manage menstruation safely, hygienically, and with dignity.
By Anegbe-Isaac Qieen Adeola
Chief Executive Info. Officer 1
FIC Benin
May 29th, 2026.
