In a powerful endorsement of youth empowerment and public health innovation, two notable Nigerian entrepreneurs—Prince Cletus Ilobanafor and Mr. Emmanuel Umenwa—have been honoured by the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) with the National Outstanding Leadership Performance Award (NOLPA).
The awards were presented during the 44th Inaugural Senate Sitting of NAPS, held at the House of Chiefs, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday, July 11, 2025. The ceremony drew stakeholders from academia, government, and the student community, celebrating individuals whose work is reshaping Nigeria’s educational and health landscapes.
Prince Ilobanafor, CEO of CEOAFRICA and the visionary behind the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), was awarded the title of “Most Student-Friendly MD in Nigeria”—a nod to his consistent support for polytechnic education and initiatives that place young people at the centre of development.
Mr. Emmanuel Umenwa, Managing Director of Geneith Pharmaceuticals and chief sponsor of the GHC, was also recognised for his strategic financial commitment to the competition. His one billion naira investment is helping to drive what is now regarded as Africa’s most ambitious youth-led anti-malaria campaign.
The Geneith Health Competition, which was officially launched by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, is focused on eliminating malaria through student-led awareness and innovation. As Nigeria continues to carry the world’s heaviest malaria burden—accounting for nearly 27% of global cases, according to the WHO—the competition offers a dynamic, grassroots response to a national health emergency.
Through the programme, students across secondary and tertiary institutions are encouraged to devise creative solutions, awareness drives, and advocacy campaigns targeting malaria prevention and control.
While accepting his award, Ilobanafor paid tribute to his late father and reaffirmed his commitment to social impact.
> “This award is for God and my late father, who believed that service to humanity is the highest calling. I stand on that belief and will continue to work for the good of our youth and our country,” he said.
He also called on public and private stakeholders to rally behind the Geneith Health Competition.
> “To every student out there: this is your moment. Register, participate, and be part of history in ending malaria,” he urged.
The competition continues to gain traction, with registration still open via www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.
With its bold approach and growing national support, the Geneith Health Competition is fast becoming more than just a contest—it’s a movement redefining how Nigeria fights disease, develops young leaders, and builds a healthier future.