Dear Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, and Members of the Rotary Family,
Welcome to a new Rotary year!
Today, 1st July 2026, I officially begin my journey as the District Governor of Rotary International District 9111. I do so with immense gratitude to God, appreciation to every Rotarian who has supported this journey, and a deep sense of responsibility to serve our district with integrity, vision, and purpose.
This moment marks the beginning of a new chapter for our district, a chapter that I believe will be defined by growth, impact, innovation, unity, and service above self.
As we step into this Rotary year together, I want every Rotarian across our district to understand one thing clearly: this year is not about titles or positions; it is about impact. It is about touching lives, transforming communities, strengthening clubs, empowering members, and ensuring that Rotary continues to remain relevant and visible in our society.
Rotary has always been an organization of action. Across the world, Rotary changes lives every single day through service projects, peacebuilding initiatives, disease prevention efforts, maternal and child health interventions, education support, environmental sustainability projects, and economic empowerment programs. District 9111 has consistently contributed to this global impact, and this year, we must do even more.
Our administration has set bold and ambitious goals because we believe our district possesses the capacity, talent, and passion required to achieve them.
One of our major priorities this year is membership growth and retention. Our target is to increase membership in District 9111 by 25% and charter a minimum of 20 new clubs before the end of the Rotary year.
Membership growth is not merely about numbers. It is about expanding Rotary’s reach and influence. It is about bringing more professionals, leaders, and changemakers into the Rotary family so that together we can serve more communities and create greater impact.
Every club must become intentional about membership attraction and engagement. We must create clubs where members feel welcomed, valued, inspired, and empowered to serve. We must build a culture of fellowship, inclusiveness, mentorship, and innovation. Rotary must not only attract new members; Rotary must also inspire members to stay, participate, and grow.
I encourage every Rotarian in District 9111 to become a Rotary ambassador this year. Invite professionals, young leaders, business owners, and community influencers to experience Rotary. Let them see the value of service, leadership, and fellowship that Rotary offers. Let them witness the joy of making a difference.
Another major focus of our administration is The Rotary Foundation, the engine room of Rotary service around the world.
The Rotary Foundation continues to empower Rotary clubs globally to execute life-changing humanitarian projects. Through the Foundation, communities gain access to clean water, healthcare, education, disease prevention, and economic opportunities. Through the Foundation, Rotary remains one of the most respected humanitarian organizations in the world.
This year, District 9111 intends to raise a minimum of $700,000 for The Rotary Foundation.
This is an ambitious target, but I strongly believe we can achieve it if every Rotarian and every club commits intentionally to supporting the Foundation. Our giving must reflect our belief in Rotary service and our commitment to Doing Good in the World.
As we begin this Rotary year today, I want to challenge every Rotarian in our district to join me in making history.
On this first day in office, I invite all Rotarians across District 9111 to participate in our Day One Rotary Foundation Challenge as we aim to raise a minimum of $300,000 on Day One.
Imagine the statement this would make globally about the commitment, passion, and generosity of our district. Imagine the projects that can be funded and the lives that can be transformed through such support.
I therefore call on clubs, leaders, past district governors, past presidents, and individual Rotarians to rise to this challenge. Let us begin this year with generosity, commitment, and purpose.
July is also a month of celebration and fellowship as we prepare for the official Installation Ceremony of the District Governor on 11th July 2026.
The installation ceremony will not merely be an event; it will be the formal launch of our collective vision for the year ahead. It will bring together Rotarians, friends of Rotary, partners, dignitaries, and leaders from different sectors to celebrate Rotary service and reaffirm our commitment to humanity.
I warmly invite every Rotarian to be part of this memorable occasion. If you have not yet purchased your ticket, this is the time to do so. Let us gather in unity and fellowship as we officially begin what promises to be an impactful and transformational Rotary year.
As your District Governor, I am committed to accessible leadership, collaboration, transparency, and support for every club in our district. This administration will prioritize teamwork because I firmly believe that the success of our district will not depend on one individual but on the collective efforts of all Rotarians working together with shared vision and shared purpose.
To our club presidents, assistant governors, district officers, committee chairs, and dedicated Rotarians, thank you for accepting the responsibility to lead and serve this year. Leadership in Rotary is a privilege and an opportunity to create lasting impact. I encourage you to lead with humility, passion, innovation, and compassion.
To our Rotaractors and Interactors, you are not leaders of tomorrow alone; you are leaders of today. Your energy, creativity, and dedication are vital to the future of Rotary. We are proud of you and look forward to working closely with you throughout this Rotary year.
To our partners and families who support our Rotary service, we appreciate your sacrifices, encouragement, and understanding. Rotary service becomes easier and more meaningful because of your support.
As we begin this journey together, let us remember that every project matters, every member matters, and every act of service matters.
A child who gains access to education matters.
A family that receives clean water matters.
A patient who receives medical care matters.
A community transformed through Rotary service matters.
A family that receives clean water matters.
A patient who receives medical care matters.
A community transformed through Rotary service matters.
This year, let us choose action over excuses, service over comfort, collaboration over division, and impact over applause.
Let us build stronger clubs.
Let us empower more communities.
Let us strengthen The Rotary Foundation.
Let us attract and retain more members.
Let us inspire the next generation of Rotary leaders.
Let us create visible and lasting impact across District 9111.
Let us empower more communities.
Let us strengthen The Rotary Foundation.
Let us attract and retain more members.
Let us inspire the next generation of Rotary leaders.
Let us create visible and lasting impact across District 9111.
I am excited about the possibilities before us. I am optimistic about what we can achieve together. Most importantly, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside such committed and passionate Rotarians.
The journey begins today.
Together, let us make this Rotary year one that will be remembered for growth, excellence, compassion, and transformational service.
I wish every Rotarian, every club, and every family a successful, fulfilling, and impactful Rotary year.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Rotarian Bukola Bakare
District Governor 2026–2027
District Governor 2026–2027
Rotary International District 9111