The Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT), Ibadan, has taken a bold step in the fight against malaria by enrolling all its students in the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), a groundbreaking initiative promoting awareness, education, and advocacy against the disease.
The competition, organized by CEOAFRICA, sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, and powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, is the first of its kind in Africa. It aims to transform students into health advocates by equipping them with knowledge on malaria prevention, treatment, and community engagement.
The flag-off ceremony was held on Wednesday, September 16, 2025, at the college conference room, with top management, health sector stakeholders, and community leaders in attendance. The event reinforced FCAH&PT’s commitment to aligning education with public health advocacy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Provost of FCAH&PT, Dr. Chidi Nweze Okpeze, described the initiative as a milestone for the institution. “Participating in the Geneith Health Competition is a significant step towards empowering our students. This program will deepen their understanding of malaria and inspire them to become proactive contributors to national health,” he said.
Dr. Okpeze further noted that the college’s participation resonates with President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda to revitalize Nigeria’s healthcare sector. “As an institution, we are proud to key into this initiative by ensuring every student is carried along,” he added.
Since its official launch on May 2, 2025, by the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the competition has attracted wide support from industry leaders, including Hajia Wosilat Giwa, Chairperson of the Governing Council of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Pharm. Tanko Ibrahim Ayuba, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), and Prof. Cyril Odianose Usifoh, former PSN President and Co-Chair of the College of Assessors.
In his remarks, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD/CEO of CEOAFRICA and initiator of the competition, emphasized the urgent need for youth-driven solutions to malaria. “Ninety-six percent of illnesses reported in school clinics are malaria-related. By engaging students as ambassadors, we are investing in a malaria-free future,” he said. He also disclosed that the ₦1 billion sponsorship package from Geneith Pharmaceuticals includes ₦420 million in scholarships and cash awards to support students.
Student leaders welcomed the project with enthusiasm. Akanbi-Stone Adeola, President of the Students’ Union Government, described it as a “life-changing opportunity,” pledging the students’ readiness to champion the anti-malaria campaign. Similarly, the college’s medical officer, Dr. Oladipupo, commended the initiative for combining awareness with practical solutions, stressing that “healthy students are the foundation of quality education.”
The FCAH&PT’s involvement sets a precedent for other institutions to follow, encouraging nationwide participation in the GHC. Enrollment remains open until February 15, 2026, through the official portal: www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.
With this decisive move, FCAH&PT Ibadan has positioned its students at the forefront of the malaria eradication movement, reinforcing the role of education in driving national health transformation.