In a powerful display of solidarity, student leaders from across Nigeria convened at a Joint Press Conference on Sunday, June 1, 2025, to officially launch the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering youth in the fight against malaria. The media briefing took place at the Monoliza Sport and Recreational Park, Asokoro in Abuja, where speakers underscored the urgency of mobilizing young people in public health advocacy.

The competition, organized by CEOAFRICA, fully Sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, and Powered by Coatal Forte Softgel seeks to engage junior secondary school, senior secondary school, and tertiary institution students in innovative health campaigns to combat malaria—a disease that continues to burden millions of Nigerians annually. Already, over 200 students have pre-registered for the competition, which is both a quiz and a platform for advocacy and community engagement.

Mr. Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, represented by Mr. Abimbola Bowoto, the firm’s Assistant General Manager of Sales and Marketing, spoke passionately about the initiative's potential. “The Geneith Health Competition is more than a contest; it is an opportunity for students to become proactive advocates in malaria prevention. We believe that every idea and action matters,” he stated. Umenwa emphasized the importance of student involvement, encouraging them to view the competition as a launching pad for lifelong health advocacy.

Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD and Team Lead of CEOAFRICA, highlighted the competition's scope, describing it as one of the largest youth-focused malaria campaigns in Africa. “This initiative aligns with global health goals and places our youth at the core of the solution to combat malaria. It’s our responsibility to provide them with the tools and platform to lead,” he affirmed.

Echoing those sentiments, Comr. Egunjobi Samuel Oluwaseun, National President of the National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES), in his speech called for stronger government support in tackling malaria. “This fight cannot be won without sustained government involvement. We urge our leaders to ramp up efforts in funding, policy, and education—let us work together to eradicate malaria from our campuses and communities,” he urged.

Comr. Josiah Peter Oche, National President of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), spoke on the critical role of youth in advocacy. “This competition provides a platform for young minds to channel their creativity and knowledge towards saving lives. Let this initiative ignite your passion for health advocacy and empower change,” he motivated his peers.

Adding to the discourse, Comr. Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, President of the Senate of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), characterized the competition as “transformational.” He noted, “The campaign instills health consciousness in our students and promotes preventive care. This is about building future leaders equipped with the tools to take charge of their health.”

Pharm. Udeh Judith Ngozi, Project Liaison Manager, expressed gratitude to key stakeholders, including the Federal Ministries of Health and Education, for their support in driving this initiative forward. She stated, “Our competition is a means to not only raise awareness but to develop actionable solutions that cater to the health needs of our communities.”

The Geneith Health Competition will involve a spectrum of activities, including a nationwide health walk, training workshops across the 36 states, and community outreach programs designed by students. These activities will urge participants to become health ambassadors, fostering organizational skills and leadership qualities.

As the event concluded with vibrant enthusiasm, Chief Umenwa encapsulated the spirit of the day: “Together, we will roll back malaria. Together, we can build a healthier and more empowered Nigeria.”

With the call for action echoing through the halls of the press conference, a new chapter in Nigeria’s public health narrative is unfolding—one where youth take the lead in advancing health advocacy and driving innovative solutions to life-threatening challenges.