500 Imo Schoolgirls Empowered Through Sports, Menstrual Health Initiative

By Umar Zubainatu Kambari

No fewer than 500 schoolgirls in Imo State have received support aimed at promoting sports participation and improving menstrual health awareness through an empowerment programme organised by the Nigeria-American Football Association (NAFA).

The initiative, held at Girls Secondary School, Ikenegbu, Owerri, combined sports training, mentorship sessions, and menstrual hygiene education to encourage young girls to pursue their ambitions without limitations.

Speaking during the programme, NAFA Vice President and Coordinator of the Gridiron Gems Initiative, Nancy Damhindi, said the intervention was designed to address challenges that often prevent girls from advancing in sports and related careers.

According to her, many female athletes discontinue their sporting journeys after secondary school due to societal expectations and limited opportunities.

She explained that the programme seeks to expose participants to the wide range of career paths available within the sports industry, including coaching, officiating, sports medicine, law, and administration.

Damhindi noted that the initiative is also focused on breaking stereotypes that confine women to traditional roles, stressing the importance of creating safe spaces where girls can dream bigger and pursue their aspirations with confidence.

As part of the outreach, participants received sanitary pads and other personal care items to help combat period poverty and promote menstrual hygiene. Motivational materials designed to boost self-confidence were also distributed.

She revealed that the Owerri event followed a similar exercise conducted in Lagos and disclosed plans to extend the programme to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The beneficiaries were also introduced to the fundamentals of flag football, with instructors providing practical lessons on player positions and basic techniques used in the game.

Some of the students who participated described the programme as enlightening and impactful.

One of the beneficiaries, Chizaramepere Duru, said the health talks encouraged girls to embrace their bodies with confidence and view womanhood positively.

Another participant, Precious Opara, commended the organisations supporting the menstrual health component of the programme, noting that the sessions helped her understand that menstruation should not be a barrier to active participation in sports and other activities.

The outreach was carried out through a collaboration involving NAFA, Browns Nigeria, Pads for Her Initiative, and Bemore Empowerment Foundation.