Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Royal support boosts firm’s fight against malaria as King Makama endorses youth driven health initiative

Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa, His Royal Highness AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III endorses Geneith Health Competition

Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa, His Royal Highness AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III

In a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s battle against malaria, His Royal Highness AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III, the revered Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa and head of the Ywom Traditional Council, has thrown his weight behind the groundbreaking Geneith Health Competition (GHC).

His royal endorsement is set to energize the fight, mobilize grassroots support, and empower Nigeria’s youth to lead the charge against one of the country’s deadliest health challenges.

In a powerful statement signed from his palace, HRH Makama called on all levels of government, private sector players, and community leaders to rally behind the initiative. “Malaria remains a preventable but deadly disease that devastates families and hampers national development,” he declared. “It’s time for collective action, and I believe the Geneith Health Competition is a vital step in arming our youth with the knowledge and tools to eradicate malaria in Nigeria.”

The GHC, organized by CEOAFRICA and Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, offers a compelling platform for secondary and tertiary students nationwide to become ambassadors of malaria awareness. With scholarships, prizes, and incentives valued at over ₦1 billion, the competition is designed to motivate young Nigerians to champion prevention, treatment, and community advocacy.

His Royal Highness’s endorsement underscores the importance of traditional leadership in health advocacy, particularly in rural communities where malaria remains a major threat. “Our community is committed to ensuring all students participate in this life-changing initiative,” he affirmed. “Education is our strongest weapon against malaria, and empowering our youth is key to building a healthier Nigeria.”

The move has garnered widespread praise, fueling momentum for the campaign that aims to see a generation of malaria-aware advocates across Nigeria. His call for a united front echoes the urgent need for immediate, coordinated action to turn the tide against the disease.

As Nigeria continues to fight malaria, the support from Garkawa’s traditional ruler sets a powerful precedent. With leaders like HRH Bashir Makama leading the way, Nigeria inches closer to its vision of a malaria-free future—one empowered student at a time.