Polaris Bank has distributed female hygiene essentials to students of Kuramo and Victoria Island Junior and Senior Secondary Schools in Lagos, as part of efforts to promote menstrual hygiene awareness and support the wellbeing of the girl-child.
The initiative, which forms part of the bank’s Adolescent Health and Hygiene Support Programme, followed activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day and is aimed at improving menstrual health education, boosting confidence among adolescent girls, and reducing school absenteeism linked to lack of access to sanitary products.
Speaking during the outreach, the Group Head, Customer Experience and Value Management at Polaris Bank, Mrs Bukola Oluyadi, delivered a health talk to the students, stressing the importance of personal hygiene during menstruation and adolescence.
She advised the girls on proper use of sanitary pads, regular change of clean underwear, and maintaining good body hygiene, noting that good hygiene contributes to health, comfort and confidence, particularly during puberty.
“Good hygiene is not just about looking clean; it is about staying healthy, feeling comfortable and showing up confidently in school and in life,” Oluyadi said, encouraging the students to cultivate lifelong healthy habits and speak openly about their health needs.
Also speaking, the Non-Executive Director of Polaris Bank, Mrs Subulade Giwa-Amu, urged the students to embrace self-care and confidence, describing personal hygiene as an important part of self-presentation and future success.
She noted that while academic performance is important, personal grooming and confidence also play a role in shaping opportunities, adding that self-respect and discipline begin with taking care of one’s body.
Polaris Bank said the outreach aligns with its broader sustainability and corporate social responsibility strategy, which focuses on empowering young girls through education, access to essential resources and social support systems that improve health and academic outcomes.
According to the bank, the distribution of hygiene essentials directly addresses challenges that affect school attendance among adolescent girls, while also helping to normalise conversations around menstruation and reduce stigma associated with menstrual health.
The bank reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in programmes that promote equal opportunities, reduce dropout rates and contribute to long-term social and economic development through the empowerment of the girl-child.
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