By Our Reporter
As part of activities marking the 2025 World Humanitarian Day, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Archibong Bassey, has unveiled a new initiative known as PADBANK, aimed at combating period poverty and restoring dignity to teenage girls and women in rural communities.
The project was officially launched on Tuesday during a community outreach at Adiabo Ikot Mbo Otu in Cross River State. Bassey, who also serves as the coordinator of the initiative, announced that PADBANK aims to distribute 80,000 sanitary pads across 12 communities within one year.
According to Bassey, the idea for PADBANK emerged from a casual conversation with a friend about the struggles teenage girls from underprivileged backgrounds face in accessing menstrual hygiene products.
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“I was once a teenager, and I understand the difficulties that come with menstrual hygiene. No girl chooses to menstruate, so no one should be shamed or dehumanised for it. This initiative is about restoring dignity and bridging the gap,” she stated.
Currently self-funded, Bassey appealed to well-meaning individuals, NGOs, and religious bodies to support the project. She highlighted the urgent need through the story of a 24-year-old woman who recently had to beg for ₦5,000 to buy sanitary towels and pain relief.
“It was heartbreaking to witness someone plead for such a basic necessity. That is why partnerships are critical so that PADBANK can remain stocked and continue reaching those in need,” Bassey added.
Also speaking, the Public Relations Officer of PADBANK, Ukoroebi Essien, emphasized that menstrual health is not a luxury but a necessity.
“What we are doing isn’t charity—it’s a right. When girls skip school or lose self-esteem due to poor menstrual hygiene, society bears the cost. PADBANK is here to change that story in Cross River and beyond,” he said.
Welcoming the team, Chief Ukpabio Okon Abasi, the community’s head of health, lauded the initiative for its positive impact and pledged the community’s continued support.
The outreach ended with the free distribution of sanitary pads to girls and women, many of whom expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NUJ Chairman and her team for their compassion and commitment.
