Dear Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Partners in Service,
As we march on this Rotary year, I am reminded that there is still so much to achieve. The journey has been impactful, but our destination demands even greater commitment, unity, and action.
March calls us to reflection, renewed energy, and purposeful strides toward the goals we have set for ourselves as a district.
First, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to every Rotarian who supported the historic visit of the Rotary International President, Francesco Arezzo, and his dear spouse, Anna Maria Arezzo-Criscione, without doubt, their time in our district will remain indelible in their hearts.
The Peace Summit was another remarkable score for our district. We were deeply honoured by the presence of the Rotary International President and spouse, the Rotary International President-Elect, Yinka Babalola, and spouse as well as The Rotary Foundation Trustee, Ijeoma Okoro. The Lagos State Governor and the Rt. Hon. Speaker were ably represented, further underscoring the importance of the gathering and the kind of collaboration needed to engender peace in our society.
The array of distinguished speakers led by our Doyen, PDG Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi brought depth, insight, and practical perspectives to discussions on peace building and conflict prevention.
The conversations were rich, forward-looking, and solution-driven. We are optimistic that the communiqué from the Summit will soon be presented to appropriate government institutions for consideration and policy engagement. Rotary remains a credible voice in advancing sustainable peace.
Still speaking of peace, our *Peace Building Centre at Olabisi Onabanjo University* is making commendable progress.
The building is currently being roofed, and we are approaching the finishing phase. This flagship project is not just a structure it is a legacy. It represents Rotary’s enduring commitment to conflict prevention, dialogue, and community transformation.
I urge every Rotarian to support this noble initiative and inscribe your name on the Roll of Honour of this historic project. Let us complete this masterpiece together and gift future generations a beacon of peace.
On membership development, the time to grow is now. Africa has now been given two Rotary Zones a significant recognition of our continent’s rising influence within Rotary. This is not the time to shrink; it is the time to expand. We need more members now than ever before. Each one must bring one. Stronger membership means greater capacity for impact.
Our achievement in Foundation giving this year is commendable, but we must push further. The Rotary Foundation remains the engine that powers our humanitarian work. No Rotarian should end this Rotary year without contributing, no matter how small. Every dollar counts. Every contribution transforms lives. Let us lead by example in generosity and commitment.
I sincerely thank all Rotarians for the overwhelming love, prayers, and messages of commiseration extended to me and my family on the passing of my dear father. Your support has been deeply comforting and truly appreciated. I look forward to welcoming you as we celebrate his life and times on the 24th–25th of April in Ondo. He lived a good, exemplary life and enjoyed the grace of God. We thank God for his impactful journey.
As I conclude, it gives me immense pride to congratulate our highly revered Rotarian, Chief Segun Osunkeye, on his nomination for the prestigious Service Above Self Award, the highest honour a Rotarian can receive. This recognition is not only well-deserved but a shining inspiration to us all.
Fellow Rotarians, let us keep the fire burning. Let us not relent until our set goals are fully achieved. The year is still within our grasp. The impact is still within our reach.
Let us continue to Unite for Good.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Rotarian Prince Henry Akinyele
District Governor