Nigeria has only two all-female prisons: Kirikiri in Lagos and Numan in Adamawa, both facing overcrowding and inadequate sanitary resources. Kirikiri, designed for 211 inmates, housed 593 detainees, exceeding its capacity by 382 individuals. Similarly, Numan, with a capacity of 400, contributes to the total of 1,538 female inmates across both facilities as of 2025, more than double their combined intended capacity. This project will provide reusable sanitary pads to women in these prisons.
Female inmates in Nigeria's prisons often face significant challenges in accessing menstrual hygiene products. Reports indicate that the Nigerian Correctional Service does not consistently provide sanitary pads to incarcerated women. Consequently, many inmates rely on their families, who may not always be aware of their needs. In the absence of proper sanitary products, some women resort to using improvised materials like rags or torn clothing, which can lead to health issues and discomfort.
This project will provide 7,690 reusable sanitary pads, five per inmate, to 1,538 women incarcerated in Nigeria's two all-female prisons, Kirikiri in Lagos and Numan in Adamawa. These pads will help address the severe shortage of menstrual hygiene products caused by overcrowding and lack of resources. Each set of reusable pads can last up to one to two years, giving inmates a more reliable and sustainable option for menstrual care.
Providing reusable sanitary pads to women in Kirikiri and Numan prisons will improve menstrual hygiene for inmates, many of whom are awaiting trial, reducing infections and related health issues. It will also boost their dignity and comfort during their stay, which can support better mental health. By lessening the financial strain on families,it may improve family relationships and reduce stress.This project could serve as a model for other prisons to adopt more humane menstrual care practices.
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