The Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) in Ibadan has successfully registered all its students for the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), a program aimed at increasing malaria awareness and empowering youth to become health advocates.
Organized by CEOAFRICA and backed by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, the competition emphasizes malaria prevention, education, advocacy, and community involvement, preparing students to serve as proactive champions of public health.
At the launch event held on campus, Acting Provost Dr. Chidi Okpeze highlighted how the initiative supports President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point health agenda, enhancing students’ knowledge about malaria and their critical role in combating the disease.
“Engaging in the Geneith Health Competition represents a vital opportunity to empower our students. This program will deepen their understanding of malaria and motivate them to make meaningful contributions to national health efforts,” Dr. Okpeze remarked.
Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD/CEO of CEOAFRICA, described the GHC as a transformative platform, revealing that Geneith Pharmaceuticals has pledged ₦1 billion in funding, which includes ₦420 million dedicated to scholarships and awards.
“Our vision through the Geneith Health Competition is to cultivate a generation of students and young people who will champion a malaria-free Nigeria. With ₦1 billion in sponsorship from Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, including ₦420 million for scholarships and cash prizes, we are committed to initiatives that prioritize student engagement,” he explained.
Addressing the severe impact of malaria in Nigeria, Ilobanafor noted, “Malaria accounts for 96% of illnesses reported by students at school clinics. By positioning youth at the forefront of this campaign, we aim to transform this reality and empower them to foster healthier communities.”
Echoing this commitment, FCAH&PT’s Students Union Government President, Akanbi-Stone Adeola, called the competition a “game-changing opportunity” for students, affirming, “We are ready to lead the charge against malaria. Our generation must be the one to eradicate this disease once and for all.”
The ceremony was graced by notable figures such as Hajia Wosilat Giwa, Chairperson of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria’s Governing Council Board; Pharm. Tanko Ibrahim Ayuba, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); and Pharm. (Prof.) Cyril Odianose Usifoh, immediate past PSN President and Co-chairman of the College of Assessors.
Since its inauguration in Abuja on May 2, 2025, by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the competition has garnered strong backing from prominent national bodies, including the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria.
With registration closing on February 15, 2026, FCAH&PT’s full participation sets a benchmark, encouraging other institutions to join this vital health movement.
