By Lizzy Carr
A girl-centered civil society organization, Nature and Empower Her Initiative (NEHI), has introduced its Bleed with Pride project to key stakeholders in Bauchi State as part of efforts to align the initiative with the state’s development priorities.
The project was unveiled during a stakeholders’ inception and alignment meeting held in Bauchi, with strong emphasis on integrating menstrual health education into schools.
Speaking at the meeting, the Executive Director of NEHI, Florence Uzoanya, described Bleed with Pride as a school-based initiative designed to promote proper menstrual health education among students in public junior secondary schools across Bauchi State.
She explained that menstrual health goes beyond understanding the menstrual cycle, stressing that it encompasses knowledge, confidence, hygiene, and dignity.
“Menstrual health is extremely important for girls in school. It is not just about understanding menstrual flow, but about building knowledge, confidence, hygiene, and dignity. When girls understand their bodies, they are better prepared emotionally, socially, and academically,” she said.
Uzoanya noted that what distinguishes the project is its comprehensive and sustainable approach, which goes beyond one off sensitization programmes.
“Our commitment is clear no aspect of a girl’s well-being must be neglected, whether physical, social, mental, or economic. True empowerment is holistic. It ensures that every girl is healthy, educated, protected, and economically empowered,” she stated.
According to her, development begins with meeting the basic needs of girls and creating opportunities that empower them to make informed decisions and shape their futures.
“When girls are supported, they are no longer trapped by limitations; they become drivers of change in their communities and beyond. Investing in girls is not charity it is a strategic investment in stronger families, more resilient communities, and a brighter, more sustainable future,” she added.
She further explained that the project aims to build confidence, uphold dignity, and break the silence and stigma surrounding menstrual health, ensuring that no girl feels ashamed of a natural biological process.
As part of its implementation strategy, NEHI is introducing a pilot phase to test the approach in selected schools.
“The pilot week is intended to test the approach and understand what works best within different school environments. Each school has its own system and structure, and this pilot will help us understand what is acceptable, practical, and how best to adapt the programme,” she explained.
During the meeting, the organization also presented the Bleed with Pride Handbook, a practical learning guide designed to support teachers and students. The handbook provides structured tools for classroom engagement and serves as the foundation of the project.
“Today, we are presenting the final design for the project and its coordination framework, including our partnerships and resources. The handbook is a guide and practical learning tool to support discussions and classroom implementation,” Uzoanya said.
Stakeholders at the meeting including representatives from relevant government ministries and agencies, civil society organizations, and religious groups reviewed the handbook and made recommendations to ensure it aligns with the specific needs and context of Bauchi State.
