By Uko Etim

UYO—Ibom Air has donated anti-malaria medications worth millions to Akwa Ibom Government through the State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) to boost the fight against the disease in the state.

Group Manager, Marketing and Communication of Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette disclosed this in a statement in Uyo at the weekend.

She stated that the CEO of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, accompanied by members of the Ibom Air management team presented 30,000 doses of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine, 10,000 doses of Lokmal DT, and 10,000 doses of Paracetamol DT to complement the efforts of state government in fight against Malaria.

Essienette said the donation was ahead of the 2026 World Malaria Day themed:”Driven to end malaria. Now we can, Now we must,” which will be commemorated tomorrow, April 25 with an awareness Walk led by a renowned Medical Influencer, Aproko Doctor (Dr. Chinonso Egemba Fidelis), who will further amplify the message and raise awareness.

She disclosed that the exercise which will take off at Ibom Plaza by 6:00 AM will feature public sensitization sessions, health education, and aerobic sessions.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Mrs. Imelda Aba, Group Manager for Corporate Services at Ibom Air, noted: “At Ibom Air, we believe that our responsibility extends beyond flying passengers to their destinations. Through FAMPact, we are investing directly in the health and well-being of our communities.

“This year’s donation and the awareness walk are reminders that malaria is preventable, and everyone has a role to play. We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to drive this message home.” She said.

The presentation was received by the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, on behalf of the Government of Akwa Ibom State.

Dr. Ukeme John, Programme Manager of SMEP in his remarks said, “We commend Ibom Air for its sustained commitment to the fight against malaria. This donation comes at a critical time and will significantly support our efforts to protect pregnant women and children. We encourage all Akwa Ibom residents to turn out for the walk and join hands with us to end malaria.”

Meanwhile, the statement while giving background to the Initiative said, “Launched in 2024, FAMPact has since provided insecticide-treated nets, malaria medications, and educational materials to communities in partnership with the Ministry of Health. The initiative continues to grow in scope and relevance year on year.”