The Federal Government and state governments have been urged to engage young Nigerians in grassroots campaigns to prevent malaria and support efforts to eliminate the disease.
The Guardian Initiative for Community Development, a child-focused non-governmental organisation, made the call while declaring its support for the Federal Government-backed health initiative for public and private schools.
The organisation said involving young people in the campaign would help connect public health, education and youth empowerment, while equipping students with the knowledge to promote healthier practices in their communities.
It stressed that young Nigerians needed meaningful opportunities and exposure to help them make informed decisions and contribute to tackling public health challenges.
According to the organisation, malaria elimination requires collaboration among all segments of society, including students and other young people, who can help spread accurate information and encourage preventive measures.
The Team Lead of the Malaria Elimination Competition, Cletus Ilobanafor, described the development as an important boost to the growing nationwide campaign against the disease.
Ilobanafor urged Nigerian youths to become ambassadors in the fight against malaria, encouraging students to use the platform to deepen their understanding of the disease, challenge misconceptions and promote prevention within their communities.
He said youth participation could help extend malaria awareness beyond schools to families and neighbourhoods, strengthening community involvement in efforts to reduce the disease burden.
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