By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
In a powerful display of commitment to public health, several students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria have united with essential stakeholders from the healthcare, education, government, and private sectors to launch a nationwide campaign aimed at ending malaria. The initiative, kicked off in Abuja, includes an open competition portal for innovative entries to address this pressing health issue.
The initiative, flagged off in Abuja, with the competition portal opened for entries starting from June 1 to end in December 2025, with the aim to galvanize youth participation in malaria prevention through advocacy, education, and innovation. The campaign is part of the activities initiated by a Geneith pharmaceutical firm to reduce the burden of malaria in the country.
“A major highlight of the day was the unveiling of the Geneith Health Competition, Portal a pioneering initiative led by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited in collaboration with MD/CEO, CEOAfrica Prince Cletus Ilobanafor said the competition, is accessible via a newly launched national online portal, designed to engage, primary ,secondary and tertiary school students in this health innovation and malaria advocacy.
“With over ₦1 billion committed to the program, ₦400 million is earmarked for student prizes, while ₦600 million will go toward educational materials and gifts for participants across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Ilobanafor emphasized the role in empowering youth to become advocates and change-makers in the fight against malaria. The competition provides a platform for students to engage in meaningful dialogue and spearhead initiatives around malaria prevention. Participants, educators, and community members were urged to fully engage with the competition, driven by the belief that the voices and ideas of young people are critical to ending the malaria scourge—where every idea and action can make a difference.
“Beyond the scope of the competition, the commitment to health awareness is envisioned as a lifelong journey. The Geneith Health Competition aims to foster a generation of youth who are passionate about health and well-being, not just during the campaign, but as a sustained movement. The initiative also serves as a catalyst for collaboration among government bodies, the private sector, and civil society—setting a benchmark for collective action in public health advocacy. The organizers expressed deep appreciation to partners and supporters whose efforts have made this vision a reality.
Addressing the diverse audience of students, educators, and health advocates, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals,Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the firm, Mr. Godwin Umenwa
described the campaign as the “first-of-its-kind” in Nigeria.This competition is more than awareness,it is about empowering Nigerian youth to be proactive agents of change,” Umenwa said. “It represents a new era where students lead the charge in creating sustainable solutions to end malaria in their communities.”
“This campaign is not just a competition—it is a national movement,” said a spokesperson for the student coalition. “We are harnessing the power of research, awareness, and advocacy to push malaria out of Nigeria.”
“Malaria remains a formidable public health challenge, impacting millions of lives and hindering the potential of young people across Nigeria. In response, the Geneith Health Competition has emerged as a powerful platform aimed at inspiring innovative thinking among students. This initiative encourages participants not only to raise awareness but also to propose and implement actionable solutions within their communities.
Stressing that Stakeholders including local businesses, religious institutions, and community organizations will joined the effort, organizing their own outreach programs and spreading awareness.
“This marks the beginning of a new era in malaria control,” Umenwa emphasized. “Together, we will build a healthier, brighter Nigeria,starting with the energy, innovation, and commitment of our young people.”
Health professionals and educators have applauded the initiative as a timely and inclusive approach to youth-driven health solutions, emphasizing the importance of sustained engagement beyond the competition.
With increasing media attention and growing community involvement, the campaign is fast becoming a blueprint for public health collaboration in Nigeria—driven not just by policy, but by the people most affected: the youth.
The event featured participation from major student organizations, including the National Association of University Students (NAUS), President, (NAUS), Comrade Josiah Peter Oche,described the initiative as a timely and purpose-driven campaign. He emphasized that the competition targets young, creative, and informed minds to take part in community-based efforts that can save lives. According to him, with students’ energy and commitment, malaria awareness can remain at the forefront of public health discussions, especially in prevention and eventual eradication.
“We’re here to motivate students to take small but significant steps in malaria prevention—using mosquito nets, clearing stagnant water, and seeking treatment at the first signs of illness. Knowing the symptoms and acting quickly can save lives,” said one student leader at the event.
“Social media platforms also lit up with stories, strategies, and testimonials could be created and shared under hashtag for students and supporters nationwide, we need to amplified the message.
In his address, Comrade Oyewunmi Festus Ayomide, President of the Senate, National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), described the initiative as transformational. He noted that it emphasizes a collective approach to the health and holistic development of Nigerian students—from Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) to various tertiary institutions. The competition, he said, fosters health consciousness, promotes research-driven engagement, and encourages early intervention among the student population.
Comrade Oyewunmi further highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the initiative. It equips students with lifesaving health education, fosters a culture of preventive care, and provides opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and innovation. He encouraged students, especially those in polytechnics, to embrace the initiative with enthusiasm—participating, learning, and leading the charge for better health. “This is more than a competition; it is about empowering a generation that is healthy in mind, body, and spirit. A healthy student today is a stronger leader tomorrow. If we must build the Nigeria of our dreams, we must start by nurturing the minds and bodies of those who will lead it,” he concluded.
In his remarks, . Comr. Egunjobi Samuel Oluwaseun, National President of the National Association of Nigeria Colleges of Education Students (NANCES), acknowledged malaria as a persistent threat that affects the productivity and well-being of millions of Nigerians. He praised the national campaign and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Health for their steadfast commitment to improving the nation’s healthcare system.
Oluwaseun reiterated that the Geneith Health Competition (www.geneithhealthcompetition.