The Federal Government, in collaboration with Genieth Pharmaceuticals firm, has unveiled a groundbreaking nationwide health competition designed to mobilize young Nigerians in the fight against malaria.

The Health Competition, with a prize fund exceeding N1billion, is to develop and present innovative strategies that enhance awareness of malaria prevention, treatment protocols and the critical importance of early diagnosis.

Speaking at the world press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, who reiterated the federal government’s commitment to eradicating the scourge of malaria, said the competition aligns with President Tinubu’s ‘renewed hope agenda’ in education, social investment, and health. Prof Pate represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr Godwin Ntadom, commended the organizers, and described the project as strategic in the ongoing battle against malaria.

The Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Emmanuel Umenwa, noted that the competition aligns with the theme of the 2025 World Malaria Day: ‘let’s come together to reinvest, reimagine, and reignite and stay committed.’Mr Umenwa further said the aim of the competition is to empower young minds in the public health space.

He called on governments, educators, policymakers, health professionals, and civil society groups to support the project, saying it aligns with the goals of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Rollback Malaria Programme. The project lead, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, said the competition is one of the largest youth-focused malaria campaigns in Africa, leveraging the young population.

The Chairperson at the event and Chairman, Council Board, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Hajia Wosilat Giwa noted that poverty and poor funding continue to fuel the spread of malaria in Nigeria. She commended the organizers for focusing on young people, describing them as the ideal group to champion the fight against malaria. They pledged their strong commitment to supporting the project.