As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Day, the intiator of Geneith Health Competition, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD/CEO of CEOAFRICA and the sponsor, Mr Umenwa Emmanuel, MD of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited are calling on all stakeholders to join the movement to eliminate this preventable disease that continues to plague millions of Nigerians.

The Geneith Health Competition (GHC), a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by CEOAFRICA and sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, is at the forefront of this campaign, empowering youth to become advocates in the fight against malaria.

In a statement reflecting on the gravity of the malaria challenge facing the nation, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, initiator of the GHC, emphasized the urgency of collective action.

“As we commemorate our independence, let us also commit to freeing ourselves from the shackles of malaria. The time is now to strengthen our resolve and unite in this fight. With the GHC, we are mobilizing our youth, providing them with knowledge and tools to combat malaria and become ambassadors for health in their communities,” he stated.

The GHC aims to educate and empower over 400 students across Nigeria with the resources needed to launch a comprehensive awareness campaign about malaria prevention and treatment. With substantial prizes and incentives totaling over ₦1 billion, the initiative enhances health education while fostering a sense of responsibility among the youth.

Umenwa Emmanuel E., Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, also expressed his enthusiasm for the movement. “As a sponsor of the GHC, we are committed to providing the necessary tools for our youth to thrive in this important fight. As we celebrate our journey as a nation, we must also show our commitment to public health. Through the GHC, we have a unique opportunity to equip our young generation with the knowledge of how to prevent malaria, which is crucial for a healthier Nigeria.”

The call to action comes at a critical time when malaria remains one of the leading health challenges in Nigeria, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. It is responsible for nearly 40% of reported illness in health facilities, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.

In light of these statistics, the GHC not only serves as a platform for education but also aims to engage stakeholders from various sectors, including government, health organizations, and the private sector, to collaborate in the fight against malaria. Stakeholders are urged to join forces to ensure the success of the initiative and help create a malaria-free Nigeria.

As the GHC continues to gain momentum, individuals, organizations, and government bodies are encouraged to participate in this vital movement. Registration for the Geneith Health Competition is ongoing and will close on February 15, 2026. Interested participants and stakeholders can find more information by visiting www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.