As Nigeria marks World Malaria Day 2026, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has formally approved the Geneith Health Competition for nationwide implementation in partnership with its Department of Public Health. The endorsement, conveyed by Coordinating Minister Ali Pate through Public Health Director Godwin Ntadom, positions the youth-focused initiative as a strategic intervention to accelerate malaria elimination across all 36 states and the FCT.
Powered by Coatal Forte Softgel and driven by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, the GHC mobilizes students in secondary and tertiary institutions to champion advocacy, research, and community engagement toward a malaria-free Nigeria. CEOAFRICA MD and GHC initiator, Prince Cletus Iloabanafor, and Geneith Pharmaceuticals Chairman Emmanuel Umenwa described the approval as a major milestone, urging Nigerian youth to serve as “Ambassadors of War Against Malaria.” Iloabanafor stressed that with Nigeria accounting for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of deaths, “eradication will remain a mirage” without active youth participation.
To support the drive, Geneith Pharmaceuticals has committed ₦1 billion, including ₦400 million in scholarships and cash rewards and ₦600 million in educational materials and outreach items. Umenwa said the investment aims to nurture a new generation of health advocates and strengthen preventive healthcare systems. The initiative, now backed by major student bodies, aligns with national malaria control strategies focused on behavioural change and community-level interventions. Registration for the Geneith Health Competition 2026 is open to students nationwide.
