FEBRUARY – WORLD PEACE AND UNDERSTANDING MONTH
Dear Rotarians,
Time is the most valuable thing a person can spend.” — Theophrastus
Indeed, how time truly flies. We have already stepped into the month of February. While it may be tempting to begin a countdown, this is certainly not the time for that because we still have so much to achieve, so many lives to touch, and so many opportunities to make Rotary felt across our communities.
I am particularly delighted to reflect on how the year began with such warmth and compassion. Our women across the district started the year on a beautiful note by presenting gifts to the first baby of the year in all our zones. This thoughtful gesture did more than welcome new life; it placed Rotary firmly in the hearts of the people we serve. I sincerely appreciate this act of kindness and celebrate our Women in Rotary using their Chair, PP Omolara Akinsanya, as a point of contact for projecting Rotary’s values in such a powerful and human way.
I must also commend the clubs for the massive vocational projects executed across the district. These initiatives truly reflect Rotary’s commitment to service above self. In the same vein, the district-led vocational training and empowerment programme carried out in conjunction with the Egba clubs was a huge success. It was a vivid reminder that “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” as Mahatma Gandhi once said.
I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Chief Osunkeye for his invaluable support, so also Rotarian Chester Apasi and to every Rotarian who contributed time, resources, and expertise to make the project impactful. I thank the committee that put this together ably led by Rotarian Kudirat Opoola.
As we all know that we were confronted with a sobering challenge at the beginning of this second half. The December surge in member deletions welcomed us into this half of the year with concern. Our sudden decline from 284 members added to 64 was indeed worrisome. However, challenges also present opportunities. I therefore appeal to all clubs to develop sustainable strategies for dues collection and member engagement to prevent mass termination of memberships at the end of each half-year.
Let me reaffirm that we remain steadfastly focused on achieving our set goal of a 500 net gain by the end of this Rotary year. We are working assiduously on the formation of new clubs, and I strongly encourage every Rotarian to invite friends, colleagues, and family members to join Rotary. Our mantra remains unchanged: “One bring one.” As Helen Keller reminds us, “Alone we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” I ask you again have you brought yours?
Our contributions to The Rotary Foundation continue to grow, and I am deeply grateful to all who have donated so far this Rotary year. The Foundation is truly the engine that drives our organisation. I therefore appeal to every Rotarian to make at least one donation to The Rotary Foundation this year, no matter how small. When multiplied, our generosity changes lives across the world.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all Rotarians for the New Year District Governor’s Social Hour and the celebration of my birthday. The love shown across zones and various groups was overwhelming. Your prayers, goodwill messages, thoughtful gifts, and best wishes touched me deeply. “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others,” wrote Cicero. I remain grateful, proud, and truly happy to lead such a loving Rotary District this time.
February holds special significance for us as Rotarians. It is the birth month of our organisation and is designated as World Peace and Understanding Month. I urge all clubs to commemorate this month with meaningful projects that promote peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding within our communities.
Most importantly, I call on all Rotarians to actively participate in the District Peace Summit scheduled for 14th February at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Arts and Culture, a most fitting venue for such a historic gathering. Our Rotary International President, Francesco Arezzo, will be delivering a paper, and we expect the presence of highly distinguished personalities. This summit is not just an event; it is a declaration of Rotary’s commitment to building a more peaceful world.
Furthermore, let us be well prepared to receive our RI President Francesco Arezzo and his spouse, his aide and spouse, our RI President-Elect, and other world Rotary leaders who will be with us from 13th to 16th February. Let us showcase the very best of Rotary, our district, and our culture during this historic visit.
Dear Rotarians, let us continue to serve with passion, lead with purpose, and act with unity. Together, let us keep the Rotary dream alive as we Unite For Good
Yours in Rotary Service,
Prince Henry Akinyele,
District Governor