Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking through his wife, Bola Obasanjo, delivered a powerful message at the unveiling of Rotarian Bukola Bakare as the District 9111 Governor Nominee. Held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, the event, which coincided with the pioneer convention of Rotary Club District 9111, also served as the formal introduction of District Governor-elect Henry Akinyele, successor to the outgoing District Governor, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi. The essence of Obasanjo’s message centered on the adoption of the Rotary Club’s core principle of selfless service as a cornerstone for national development and personal responsibility. He urged Nigerians to emulate the Rotary model, emphasizing the importance of consistent self-evaluation to gauge individual contributions to society. This call to action highlighted the need for a collective shift towards a service-oriented mindset, promoting a culture of accountability and positive societal impact.
Obasanjo’s address underscored the Rotary Club’s commendable initiatives aimed at uplifting humanity. He commended their tangible impact on communities, emphasizing that their work extended beyond mere rhetoric. This praise served not only as an acknowledgment of the club’s efforts but also as an encouragement for others to embrace similar values. He specifically lauded the outgoing District Governor, Dr. Kukoyi, and his wife, Rev. Olusola Kukoyi, for their exemplary commitment to service, showcasing them as living embodiments of the Rotary ethos. This recognition highlighted the importance of leadership by example and the power of individual dedication in driving positive change.
The event marked a significant transition in leadership within District 9111, with Bakare, the first female president of the Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA, poised to succeed Akinyele. Her nomination signifies a milestone for the district, representing a step towards greater inclusivity and diversity in leadership roles. Bakare expressed her gratitude for the nomination, viewing it as an opportunity to amplify her contributions to society. Her acceptance speech resonated with a sense of purpose and a commitment to further the Rotary Club’s mission of service. This transition underscores the organization’s continuous evolution and its commitment to empowering individuals to make a difference.
Bakare’s remarks echoed Obasanjo’s call to action, emphasizing the significant work that remains to be done in service to humanity for Nigeria to reach its full potential. This acknowledgment of the challenges ahead, coupled with a determination to contribute to solutions, highlights the importance of sustained effort and collaborative action. It reinforces the idea that societal progress requires ongoing commitment and a shared vision for a better future.
Outgoing District Governor Dr. Kukoyi expressed his appreciation for the support received during his tenure, urging members to maintain their impact at the grassroots level. This emphasis on sustained engagement highlights the importance of consistent effort and the need to reach communities at the most fundamental level. It reinforces the idea that true impact comes from sustained involvement and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Rotarian Eric Kimani, representing Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick, brought a global perspective to the event. He encouraged Rotary members to embrace innovation and youth involvement while intensifying efforts to eradicate polio globally. This message highlighted the importance of adapting to changing circumstances and engaging the next generation in the pursuit of the Rotary Club’s mission. The focus on polio eradication underscored the organization’s continued commitment to global health initiatives and its dedication to making a lasting impact on the world stage. Kimani’s presence served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of Rotary clubs worldwide and the shared commitment to service above self.
In conclusion, the unveiling of Rotarian Bukola Bakare as the District 9111 Governor Nominee served as a platform to reinforce the Rotary Club’s core values of selfless service, community engagement, and global impact. Former President Obasanjo’s call to action, coupled with the incoming leadership’s commitment to service, underscored the importance of individual and collective responsibility in nation-building. The event highlighted the Rotary Club’s ongoing efforts to address societal challenges, both locally and globally, and its commitment to empowering individuals to make a difference in the world. The transition in leadership, coupled with the focus on innovation and youth involvement, signifies the organization’s continuous evolution and its dedication to creating a better future for all.
