District Governor's Message for September 2025

Dear Rotarians,

 

What an exciting month August has been! The announcement of our very own Rotarian Yinka Babalola as the Rotary International President for 2026-2027 was of great joy to Africa and, most especially, for us Nigerians.

 

We were fortunate to have him in our district when the news broke, and the celebration: a well- packaged luncheon and reception that followed, were truly unforgettable.

 

I congratulate RIPE Yinka on this remarkable achievement and wish him well in his new role. I enjoin all Rotarians to support him with our prayers and actions as he embarks on this noble journey.

 

My official District Governor's visits have been an enriching experience, allowing me to connect with Rotarians in their communities and commission impactful projects.

 

I appreciate the clubs that welcomed me warmly during the month of August, you were all just so amazing.

However, I would like to remind Rotary Club of Lagos Festac Cosmopolitan, Rotary Club of Agbara, and Rotary Club of Ikeja Horizon to reschedule their visits as they were unable to keep their previously fixed dates. Let's adhere to our schedules to ensure a smooth itinerary.

 

I am happy to report that our district has achieved a net gain of 150 members in just two months!. This impressive growth is a testament to the dedication of our Rotarians in inviting friends and associates to join our noble organisation. I enjoin you all to keep bringing quality members to our various clubs.

 

I wish to once again congratulate the charter President, members, and supporters of the newly formed Rotary Club of Ikeja Cosmopolitan and wish them well.

Let's continue to welcome new members and grow our Rotary family.

 

The success of this year's Rotary Youth Leadership Academy ( RYLA) programme is worth celebrating.

With 409 Rylarians participating, it was a fantastic and well-packaged event that was graced by Past District Governors, Future Governors, and distinguished Rotarians.

 

I hope the sponsor clubs will follow up with their Rylarians even after the programme to monitor their progress and nurture them on the ideals of our organization.

 

I appreciate the organising committee, ably led by Rotarian Ibironke Ogun (AG) and all our experienced speakers and resource persons, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Honourable Bolaji Ogunlende.

 

September is Rotary International's Basic Education and Literacy Month. Basic education is the foundation of a child's future, and it is essential that we support initiatives that promote literacy and education.

 

I encourage clubs to carry out projects that align with this theme, such as renovation of classrooms, providing educational materials, supporting literacy programmes and hosting advocacy sessions on the subject.

Let's make a difference in our communities and empower future generations.

 

As we strive to achieve our goals, let's not forget to support The Rotary Foundation through donations. Every contribution counts, and our collective effort will enable us to make a more significant impact.

 

I congratulate President Adekunmilola Adio-Moses and the entire members of Rotary Club of Omole Golden on emerging as the Best Club of the Month. I encourage all clubs to submit their reports on time and aspire to win this monthly contest.

 

I am excited about our upcoming trip to Brussels for the Rotary International Zone 22 Euro-Africa Summit. To those who have planned to attend, I look forward to seeing you there. For those still awaiting visas, be rest assured that the district will do everything within our capacity to support your visa application.

 

I thank all Rotarians for their support so far and encourage you to join hands with me to achieve resounding success. As the saying goes, "Time is of the essence." Let's start achieving our goals without delay, for procrastination can hold us back.

 

Thank you, and let's make this year count as we Unite for Good.

Yours in Rotary Service,

 

Rotarian (Prince) Henry Akinyele

District Governor 2025-2026