Traditional Leader Backs Malaria Awareness Drive

The Mwo-Ywom of Garkawa in Plateau State, His Royal Highness AIG Bashir E. Makama Dabup III (psc+Rtd), has endorsed the Geneith Health Competition, a youth-focused initiative designed to raise awareness about malaria prevention and control.

In a statement issued from his palace, the traditional ruler said malaria remained a preventable disease that continues to pose a major public health challenge in Nigeria, stressing the need for collective action.

He said the endorsement of the Geneith Health Competition representsed not only a commitment to a noble cause but also a decisive action towards ensuring a healthier future for our community and the nation at large,” he said. “It is our collective responsibility to prioritize health initiatives and mobilize resources to create a malaria-free future.

The competition, organised by CEOAFRICA in collaboration with Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, engages students in secondary and tertiary institutions as ambassadors for malaria awareness. It also offers educational incentives, including scholarships and prizes, aimed at encouraging participation.

Makama said his community would work to ensure all students in Garkawa were enrolled in the programme, adding that young people must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to drive grassroots health advocacy.

He called on government, private organisations and other community leaders to support similar efforts, noting that broad collaboration was essential to tackling malaria effectively.

“As the movement against malaria grows, traditional institutions must play their part in mobilising people and sustaining awareness,” he added.