The Federal Cooperative College (FCC), Eleyele, in Ibadan, has declared full support for the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) by registering 1,000 students to participate in the nationwide campaign against malaria.
The GHC, introduced by Geneith Pharmaceuticals, comes with a N1 billion package in prizes, scholarships, and incentives aimed at driving awareness and prevention of malaria among young people in Nigeria.
Speaking during the unveiling of the initiative, the Provost of the College, Dr Ibrahim Abdull Ganiyu, described the competition as timely, noting that about 90 percent of students visiting the school clinic present with malaria symptoms.
He said the institution would also purchase 1,000 doses of anti-malaria drugs to help keep students healthy during the campaign.
“Malaria is a killer disease, and anything that supports its eradication is welcome. Our students are ready to take up the challenge and excel in this competition,” Dr Abdul Ganiyu stated.
The Head of the College Clinic, Mrs Sulaimon Rofiat Ambimbola, praised the project for combining awareness with practical solutions. According to her, “Sanitation, prevention, and awareness are key. If students are healthy, their education thrives. That is why we strongly align with this initiative.”
Student leaders at the College also pledged total support for the nationwide campaign. The President of the Students Union Government (SUG), Comrade Emmanuel Aluko, described the competition as a “life-changing opportunity” for young people. Similarly, the National President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, urged students nationwide to participate.
“Registration is not just about competing; it comes with education and access to treatment. Together, we can create a malaria-free generation,” Comrade Oyewumi said.
The lead promoter of the initiative, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, explained that the goal was to make students frontline ambassadors in the fight against malaria.
“Malaria is Nigeria’s deadliest enemy, causing economic deprivation and loss of lives. Through this competition, our goal is to see students become ambassadors for a malaria-free Nigeria,” he said.
Organizers added that the campaign also encourages young people to take the lead in sanitation and prevention, which they believe will significantly reduce malaria cases. Registration for the Geneith Health Competition is open until February 15, 2026.