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In an effort to tackle one of Nigeria’s deadliest diseases, Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd has launched the Geneith Health Competition, a N1 billion campaign mobilising students across the country to combat malaria.
Unveiled during a joint press conference in Abuja, the initiative is in collaboration with CEOAfrica and supported by Nigeria’s top student associations: the National Association of University Students (NAUS), the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), and the National Association of Nigeria Colleges of Education Students (NANCES).
Described as the first of its kind in Nigeria, the competition is set to engage students from secondary and tertiary institutions in malaria awareness, prevention, and community-based solutions.
The Geneith Health Competition will involve students in research, health education, advocacy, and community outreach, with a focus on context-specific malaria prevention strategies. Registration is now open on the initiative’s website.
“This competition is more than a campaign; it’s a catalyst for change. Our students are not just participants; they are the new generation of health advocates who will lead the charge against malaria,” Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa said.
The initiative will see N400 million allocated as cash prizes and N600 million in gifts and resources to boost outreach efforts. It is powered by Coastal Forte Softgel, a pharmaceutical subsidiary of Geneith.
CEOAfrica’s MD/Team Lead and initiator of the competition, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, emphasised the importance of youth involvement.
“Gone are the days we wait for the government alone. This generation is taking destiny into its own hands,” he said.
Student leaders from the participating associations expressed strong support for the program.
“A healthy student today is a stronger leader tomorrow. This competition promotes research, preventive healthcare, and student-led innovation. It’s a historic moment,” Senate President of NAPS, Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, stated.
President of NAUS, Comr. Josiah Peter Oche echoed this sentiment, underlining the urgency of addressing malaria’s impact on millions of Nigerians. .
“Through awareness and action, we can change this. This initiative gives us a chance to become lifesavers in our communities,” he said.
NANCES National President, Amb. Comrade Egunjobi Samuel Oluwaseun praised the private sector’s involvement but urged the government to intensify efforts in the fight against malaria.
“We commend Geneith, but we urge the government to double its efforts,” he said, acknowledging recent health sector reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Health, but stressing the need for sustained funding, policies, and grassroots implementation.
