Abuja: Mr Emmanuel Umenwa, the Chief Executive Officer of Geneith Pharmaceutical Limited, emphasized the need for innovation and youth-driven ideas to combat malaria in Nigeria during a media conference held in Abuja. The event was organized to announce the Geneith National Health Competition, which aims to engage young people in the fight against malaria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Umenwa described malaria as a pressing health concern in the country, referencing a World Health Organisation report that indicated Nigeria accounted for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of malaria-related deaths. He stressed that addressing the issue goes beyond funding and access to healthcare, highlighting the importance of reigniting passion and commitment, particularly among the youth, who he described as both the leaders of tomorrow and change-makers of today.
The competition, organized by CEOAfrica and sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceutical Limited with support from Coatal Forte Softgel, seeks to channel the creativity and energy of young Nigerians. It aims to empower them to become champions of public health, spreading prevention messages and raising awareness in their communities. Participants will engage in public health advocacy, project design, and community outreach, with a prize pool exceeding N120 million.
Prof. Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, acknowledged the significant health and developmental challenges posed by malaria, including emotional, economic, and infrastructural implications. Represented by Dr Godwin Ntadom, Director of Public Health, Pate commended the organizers for their impactful initiative.
Mr Cletus Ilobanafor, Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, explained that the competition would be structured as a nationwide quiz competition with categories for Junior Secondary School (JSS), Senior Secondary School (SSS), and Tertiary Institution. The competition will begin with an online state-level round, followed by physical regional contests, ultimately leading to national finals. Registration for the one-year cycle competition starts on June 1, and a 14-member College of Assessors from various healthcare sectors will oversee the process.
Ilobanafor outlined the prizes, ranging from N300,000 to N5 million for JSS, N500,000 to N10 million for SSS, and N2.5 million to N15 million for the tertiary category, along with additional gift items for participants nationwide.
The event also featured the launch of an online portal for participant registration at www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.
