In a strong show of commitment to the fight against malaria, His Royal Highness AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III (psc+ Rtd), the Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa, Plateau State, and head of the Ywom Traditional Council, has officially endorsed the Geneith Health Competition (GHC). His endorsement underscores the importance of empowering young people to take active roles in eradicating malaria through education and advocacy.
In a personally signed statement from his palace, the monarch emphasized the urgent need for collective action against malaria, which remains a major public health burden in Nigeria. He urged all tiers of government to support the initiative, stressing that raising awareness about malaria prevention and treatment—especially among the youth—was essential.
“The endorsement of the Geneith Health Competition represents not only a commitment to a noble cause but also a decisive action toward ensuring a healthier future for our community and the nation at large,” he said. “Malaria is a preventable disease that continues to take a toll on our people. It is our collective responsibility to prioritize health initiatives and mobilize resources to create a malaria-free future.”
The Geneith Health Competition, spearheaded by CEOAFRICA in collaboration with Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, engages secondary and tertiary students nationwide as malaria awareness ambassadors. With scholarships, cash prizes, and incentives worth over ₦1 billion, the program highlights the vital link between education and community health.
The monarch’s endorsement further cements Garkawa’s commitment to fully enrolling its students in the competition, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to champion health advocacy.
“The support for the Geneith Health Competition is growing, and we must capitalize on this momentum,” he added. “I call on governments, private organizations, and community leaders to unite in supporting this initiative. Our joint efforts are essential to defeating malaria and protecting our citizens’ health.”
As momentum builds nationwide, the role of traditional leadership in advancing health advocacy is gaining recognition. With the GHC’s focus on education, community engagement, and advocacy, a new generation of empowered youth offers hope for rewriting Nigeria’s malaria story.
Under the leadership of HRH Bashir Makama, Garkawa stands out as a committed partner in this vital cause, setting a model for other communities to emulate.
For more information on the Geneith Health Competition and how to participate, visit www.geneithhealthcompetition.com.
