Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerians to adopt the Rotary Club’s culture of selfless service as a way of building the country and promoting personal responsibility. He gave this advice through his wife, Bola Obasanjo, during the unveiling of Rotarian Bukola Bakare as the District 9111 Governor Nominee in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The ceremony took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library during the pioneer convention of Rotary Club District 9111. The event also featured the formal introduction of Rotarian Henry Akinyele as the District Governor-elect, who is expected to succeed the current District Governor, Dr Oluwole Kukoyi. Bakare, who is the first female president of Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA, is next in line to take over from Akinyele.
Obasanjo encouraged Rotarians and other Nigerians to assess their daily impact on the lives of others. He said people should always reflect and ask themselves what positive contributions they are making to society, just like members of the Rotary Club.
“Before you go to bed every day, always take a pause and ask yourself, ‘What am I doing for others? What are people benefiting from me? What am I doing like the Rotary Club to make life more comfortable for others?'” Obasanjo said.
He praised the efforts of outgoing District Governor, Dr Oluwole Kukoyi, and his wife, Reverend Olusola Kukoyi, describing them as true examples of Rotary Club’s commitment to service and humanitarian work.
“It is not just by word of mouth that the Rotary Club is doing so much to help humanity; it is obvious to all,” Obasanjo added.
Bukola Bakare, who expressed gratitude for being nominated as District Governor Nominee, said the role gives her an opportunity to increase her contributions to society. According to her, Nigeria can achieve its full potential if more people are involved in meaningful service.
“A lot still needs to be done in service to humanity if we want our country to attain its full potential,” she said.
Dr Kukoyi, while speaking at the event, thanked all Rotary Club members for their support during his time in office and encouraged them to continue their grassroots impact.
Rotarian Eric Kimani, who represented Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick, also addressed the gathering. He encouraged members of the club to adopt innovation and actively involve young people. He added that efforts to eradicate polio should be sustained across the globe.
The convention brought together members from various Rotary clubs within District 9111, which was recently formed to bring together service-minded individuals in the South-West region. The occasion served as a celebration of service, leadership, and the Rotary spirit of giving without expecting anything in return.
