Ibom Air's FAM-pact Program Takes Flight Against Malaria in Nigeria
Nigerian carrier Ibom Air is strengthening its corporate social responsibility footprint with a substantial anti-malaria medication donation, coinciding with World Malaria Day 2025. This initiative positions the airline as a leader in aviation sector health initiatives.
Ibom Air has launched a comprehensive health program, FAM-pact (Fight Against Malaria in Pregnant Women and Children Today). CEO Mfon Udom personally presented the medication donation to state health authorities. A 5km awareness walk, the “Walk Against Malaria,” took place on April 26th in Uyo, incorporating public sensitization sessions and distribution of Dual AI ITNs (New Generation Insecticide-Treated Nets). The program demonstrates the airline's commitment to community engagement beyond its core operations, setting a precedent for health initiatives within the aviation sector. This strengthens Ibom Air's position in the Nigerian market and enhances its corporate reputation through healthcare leadership.
This initiative is particularly relevant for the African travel trade. By actively combating malaria, Ibom Air contributes to a safer and healthier environment for both local communities and visitors. This not only reinforces the airline's commitment to the well-being of its passengers but also enhances the overall attractiveness of the region as a travel destination. A healthier population translates to a more robust tourism sector, benefiting travel agents, hotels, and other related businesses.
Malaria poses a significant challenge to the African aviation and tourism sectors. The disease's prevalence can deter tourists and increase operational costs for airlines. Ibom Air's FAM-pact initiative directly addresses this challenge, aligning with broader industry efforts to promote health and safety in travel. The airline's proactive approach underscores the vital role of CSR programs in fostering sustainable tourism growth.
The FAM-pact initiative, launched in 2024, has already provided insecticide-treated nets, malaria medications, and educational materials to communities in partnership with the Ministry of Health. The recent donation and awareness walk further solidify Ibom Air's dedication to malaria prevention, reflecting the World Malaria Day theme, “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest. Reimagine. Reignite.” The airline is partnering with the Akwa Ibom State Ministries of Health, Environment, and Information, the National End Malaria Council, and other relevant agencies to maximize the impact of its efforts. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing critical health challenges.
The Walk Against Malaria brought together community members, health officials, and Ibom Air representatives to raise awareness and promote the adoption of effective malaria prevention tools. The distribution of Dual AI ITNs is a direct response to rising mosquito resistance in the state. Ibom Air's Group Manager for Corporate Services, Mrs. Imelda Aba, emphasized the airline's CSR platform's focus on health, education, and community development, highlighting FAM-pact's role as a rallying point for protecting vulnerable populations. This initiative showcases how airlines can leverage their resources and influence to make a tangible difference in the communities they serve, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more prosperous future for the African travel industry.