The campaign for a malaria-free Nigeria has received a major boost as His Royal Highness, Retired AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III, the Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa in Plateau State, officially endorsed the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), an initiative designed to empower students as health advocates.
In a statement signed at his palace, the respected monarch described the fight against malaria as a “shared responsibility,” stressing that the disease, though preventable, continues to claim lives across communities in Nigeria.
“The endorsement of the Geneith Health Competition represents a commitment to a noble cause and a decisive action toward ensuring a healthier future for our community and the nation at large,” the monarch said. “It is our collective duty to prioritize health initiatives and mobilize resources to create a malaria-free future.”
The Geneith Health Competition, organized by CEOAFRICA in partnership with Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, targets students in secondary and tertiary institutions, equipping them with knowledge and advocacy skills to lead community-level campaigns against malaria. The initiative also provides scholarships, cash prizes, and other incentives worth over ₦1 billion.
His Royal Highness revealed that the Garkawa community plans to ensure all eligible students participate in the competition, enabling young people to take ownership of health awareness campaigns in their communities.
Calling on governments, private organizations, and other community leaders to join the effort, he emphasized that collective action is crucial to defeating malaria.
Public health advocates have welcomed the endorsement, describing it as a critical step in leveraging traditional leadership to strengthen community engagement and accelerate the fight against the disease.
With more stakeholders pledging their support, the initiative is gaining momentum, raising hopes that the vision of a malaria-free Nigeria could soon become a reality.
For details on how to participate in the competition, visit www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.