Niran Odufayo
In a significant boost to youth-led public health advocacy, the Geneith Health Competition has earned the endorsement of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN). During a courtesy visit on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, ACPN National Chairman, Pharm. Ambrose Igwekanma Ezeh, expressed strong support for the initiative and emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts in the fight against malaria.
Speaking at the event, Pharm. Ezeh highlighted the severe impact of malaria on Nigeria’s student population. “The fight against malaria is not a solitary effort,” he stated. “We must harness the energy, creativity, and voice of our young people in a nationwide movement for disease prevention and health education.” He stressed the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in finding long-term solutions, particularly in light of reports that 95% of students who visit health centers in tertiary institutions are diagnosed with malaria.
The Geneith Health Competition was developed to engage university and college students in designing and leading malaria prevention initiatives. Through education, peer influence, and grassroots mobilization, the program aims to transform students into malaria ambassadors—young advocates who will spread awareness and practical solutions within their campuses and surrounding communities.
Mr. Umenwa Emmanuel, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Geneith Pharmaceuticals, explained the motivation behind the competition. “Eliminating this disease in Nigeria becomes a more realistic goal when we engage young people,” he noted. “They are the driving force behind any vision that needs to be realized.” He underscored the strategic importance of channeling youth potential toward national health outcomes.
Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CEOAfrica, described the competition as a “historic milestone in youth engagement,” saying it offers young Nigerians a platform to become part of the solution. “This initiative is designed to empower the youth and ensure that we can win this fight against malaria in the shortest time possible,” he said. “The youth are energetic, innovative, and possess the potential to be change-makers.”
Ilobanafor further noted that the scale of the program is unprecedented. “With an impressive investment in overall support, this is the largest health competition of its kind in Africa. We urge other patriotic Nigerians to follow this example and join in the vital fight against malaria.”
The Geneith Health Competition is not just a contest—it is a movement designed to inspire leadership, responsibility, and innovation among Nigerian students. As it rolls out nationwide, the initiative is expected to shape a new generation of health advocates, equipped not only with knowledge, but also with the tools to make tangible impact in their communities.
By centering the voices and actions of young people, the competition signals a shift in malaria control strategy—one that places prevention, education, and youth-driven advocacy at its core.