The leadership of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) has commended Nigerians for embracing the growing anti-malaria movement as the country marked Democracy Day. They described the increasing public participation in the initiative as a sign of renewed commitment to improving public health outcomes.
Democracy Day Message
In a Democracy Day message, the initiator of the Geneith Health Competition and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Iloabanafor, alongside the Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals and sponsor of the initiative, Prince Ilobanafor, said the competition, powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, continues to attract widespread interest from students, youth leaders and community advocates across the country. They noted that Democracy Day represents not only political freedom but also the collective aspiration for a healthier nation free from preventable diseases such as malaria, which continues to pose a significant public health challenge.
Youth Engagement
The GHC leadership described the growing enthusiasm for the competition as evidence that young Nigerians are increasingly willing to contribute to nation-building through health advocacy and community engagement. They also welcome the recent passage of the National Agency for Malaria Elimination Bill by the Senate, describing it as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to combat malaria. The group further expressed support for the healthcare priorities of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly initiatives aimed at disease prevention and improved healthcare delivery.
Speaking on the campaign, Emmanuel Umenwa said malaria elimination remains achievable, stressing that Nigeria possesses the resources, expertise and human capacity required to defeat the disease, just as several other countries have done. He identified students and young people as critical drivers of the anti-malaria movement, noting that their energy, innovation and creativity could help transform health outcomes in communities nationwide.
Iloabanafor, meanwhile, said the increasing number of young Nigerians seeking to participate in the initiative demonstrates a growing national consciousness and readiness to support causes that improve lives and strengthen communities. He urged stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to sustain awareness campaigns and encouraged students in secondary and tertiary institutions to serve as anti-malaria ambassadors within their communities.
Call for Collaboration
The GHC leadership emphasised that eliminating malaria would require stronger collaboration among government agencies, educational institutions, community leaders, development partners and citizens to ensure that policy initiatives translate into measurable results. They challenged Nigerians to remain steadfast in the fight against malaria, describing the campaign as a national movement capable of saving lives, strengthening communities and securing a healthier future for generations to come.
Registration for the Geneith Health Competition remains open to students across the country as the initiative continues to expand its advocacy for a malaria-free Nigeria.
