In a groundbreaking move, the Bauchi State House of Assembly (BAHA) has passed a bill to establish free sanitary pad banks in schools, correctional facilities, and community centers across the state.
The bill, presented at the plenary session on March 12, 2025, by Mr. Lawal Dauda, Chairman of the House Committee on Health, aims to tackle menstrual hygiene challenges and reduce school absenteeism among adolescent girls.
Leading the debate, Dauda highlighted that the initiative would ensure access to sanitary pads for indigent girls, women, and female inmates, thereby promoting better hygiene and dignity.
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“This pioneering legislation positions Bauchi State as the first in Nigeria to take such a bold step in addressing menstrual health issues and advancing women’s development,” Dauda stated.
Commending the passage of the bill, Speaker of the House, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, acknowledged the relentless advocacy efforts of stakeholders and assured that the initiative would significantly benefit vulnerable women and girls.
Mrs. Comfort Attah, Executive Director of ASHH Foundation, lauded the state government and lawmakers for prioritizing menstrual health. However, she emphasized that the bill would only take full effect once signed into law by the governor.
This milestone marks a major step towards improving menstrual hygiene management and gender inclusivity in Bauchi State, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
