... AND THE LAST QUARTER BEGINS
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
As we step into the month of April, designated by Rotary International as Environment Month, I extend my warmest greetings to you all and sincerely commend your unwavering dedication and selfless service to humanity across our communities and beyond.
The past weeks have been filled with impactful activities that continue to showcase the strength, compassion, and unity of our Rotary District. From the insightful Rotary Day Webinars organized by our Women in Rotary, to the meaningful International Women’s Day Impact Outreach in collaboration with Deloitte, we have remained steadfast in creating lasting, positive change in society.
One particularly heartwarming moment was the Welcome Reception for the Hole in the Heart Project beneficiaries. Witnessing God’s-Love, Hamzat, and Unoma joyfully celebrating their renewed health after successful surgeries in India was truly uplifting. It reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to restoring hope and transforming lives. I congratulate the Chukwuma, Adeyeri, and Guobadia families for entrusting us with their wonderful children. I also extend deep appreciation to my IPDG, Rotarian Oluwole Kukoyi, for initiating this life-saving project, and to the Gift of Life Committee, ably led by Dr. Hassan Adelakun, for their dedication and compassion.
I commend the Support Our Environment Committee and partnering clubs for the successful execution of the Waste Recycling Project, a bold step toward environmental sustainability. This initiative exemplifies Rotary’s commitment to protecting our planet, and I encourage all clubs to adopt similar projects as annual signature initiatives, with the vision of expanding their reach across our communities in the coming years. My sincere appreciation goes to PP Sam Adenekan and his team for a job well done.
Equally commendable was the Elders Forum Committee’s donation to the Old People’s Home, Yaba, a powerful reminder of our enduring commitment to community development and care for the vulnerable. I applaud PP Niran Fafowora and the committee for revitalizing the Elders Forum Committee’s activities this Rotary year.
April calls us to action. As Environment Month, I urge all clubs to intensify efforts in executing impactful environmental projects. Let us lead boldly through tree planting, waste management initiatives, and community education, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
At the same time, let us remain intentional in strengthening our core pillars, membership growth and retention, support for The Rotary Foundation, and the execution of meaningful, high-impact service projects. These remain critical to our continued growth, relevance, and impact as a district.
As we look ahead to the Royal District Conference scheduled for early May, preparations are in top gear. This conference promises to be a remarkable gathering, rich in fellowship, learning, and celebration of our shared achievements. I kindly solicit your full support, active participation, and commitment to making this event a resounding success.
The month of March, however, brought moments of deep sorrow with the loss of dear members of our Rotary family. I commiserate with our District Executive Secretary, Rotarian Michael Effiong James, on the passing of his beloved wife, Oluwakemi, in a tragic domestic accident. We also mourn the sudden passing of our energetic PAG Kehinde Amao, who was actively engaged in service until his final moments. Their departures are profound losses to our district.
I encourage their families to find solace in the impactful lives they lived, lives dedicated to God and humanity. Their legacies of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire us all. I sincerely thank Rotarians across the district for the overwhelming support and empathy shown during this difficult time. This truly reflects the deep bond, care, and respect we share. May the Almighty grant the departed eternal rest and comfort their families. Amen.
Fellow Rotarians, as we approach the final stretch of this Rotary year, let us press on with renewed energy, unity, and purpose. There is still much to accomplish, and together, we can achieve even greater impact.
Thank you for your continued service and dedication as we remain committed to Uniting for Good.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Rotarian Prince Henry Akinyele
District Governor
Rotary International District 9111