The District Head of Lailaba and Sarkin Gobir Lailaba in Kebbi State, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Mera, has thrown his weight behind the nationwide Geneith Health Competition.
He made the endorsement on August 18, 2026, while receiving the competition’s Activator, Aminu Ahmad Zubairu, during a courtesy visit to his palace.
The monarch called for stronger action against malaria at both community and national levels. He said sustained investment, public awareness, and collaboration among government, private sector and community leaders are needed to reduce the burden of the disease.
He noted that malaria continues to affect vulnerable groups, especially in rural communities. According to him, progress made in prevention can be lost if attention and resources decline.
“With commitment, investment, and community involvement, malaria can be defeated,” Alhaji Mera said.
“Malaria is a serious public health challenge. Any effort that supports its reduction is welcome. Our students are ready to participate and learn in this competition.”
The traditional ruler stressed the need to involve young people in health advocacy. He said students in rural and hard-to-reach areas should be included so they can share health information in their homes and communities.
He added that the Lailaba community will support its students to take part in the competition. He explained that equipping young people with health knowledge can help promote early treatment and preventive practices.
“This initiative can help bridge awareness gaps and mobilise local action against preventable diseases,” he stated.
Alhaji Mera also called on other traditional rulers, community leaders, and organisations to support the programme. He said traditional institutions have an important role in promoting health interventions at the grassroots.
“Government at all levels, private organisations, and community leaders must work together to support this effort. United action is important to improve public health,” he added.
Responding, the competition’s Activator, Aminu Ahmad Zubairu, thanked the monarch for his support.
“We appreciate His Royal Highness for receiving us and for backing this youth-focused initiative. His support will encourage more students in Kebbi State to join the campaign,” Zubairu said.
The Geneith Health Competition is organised by CEOAFRICA in partnership with the Department of Public Health. It is sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, makers of Coatal Forte Softgel.
According to the initiator and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Sunday Ilobanafor, the competition aims to equip students with health knowledge and make them advocates for malaria prevention.
“Malaria remains a major health challenge in Nigeria. Through this competition, we want students to become ambassadors for prevention and early treatment,” Prince Ilobanafor said.
The Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, also commended the traditional ruler for his support.
The competition is open to secondary and tertiary students across Nigeria at state, regional and national levels. It combines health education, advocacy and contests. Organisers said prizes including scholarships and academic rewards worth over ₦1 billion are available to participants.
Registration for the 2026 edition closes on October 30, 2026.
