Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige Holds a Grand Investiture to Commence a New Chapter of Rotary Service, Vision and Lasting Impact
The journey from shaping public image to shaping lives through service entered a remarkable new chapter as Rotarian Winifred Ebiye, ANIPR, was formally invested as the Charter President of the newly chartered Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige at a grand investiture held on Sunday, 6 September 2026, at the Naval Dockyard, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Chartered on 14 July 2026 with 17 members and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ikoyi, the new Rotary family came together under the inspiring theme “CREATE LASTING IMPACT” and the club’s guiding philosophy, “Prestige through Service.” The ceremony marked not merely the installation of a president, but the commencement of a new chapter anchored on purposeful leadership, strategic partnerships, fellowship and humanitarian service.
A NEW ROTARY FAMILY, A BOLD SERVICE MANDATE
The investiture brought together distinguished personalities, Rotary leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, friends and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the birth of Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige and the emergence of Rotarian Winifred Ebiye as its pioneer leader.
Among the distinguished guests were Rear Admiral IE Shehu, His Highness Dr. Ephraim Fagha Faloughi-Spiff, Her Excellency Mrs. Gwendolyn Tonyesia Yoyinsola Nwachukwu, PAG Bala Yesufu, PDC Kamoru Omotosho, IPP Clare Omatseye, PAG John Senaya, PAG Ayodele Faroun, Rtn. Sandra Ovie, AG Kemi Folorunso, Dr. Ebiekure Jasper Eradiri, Hon. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, Prince Bisi Olatilo, Mr. Charles Oputa (Charly Boy), Dr. Carolyn Hutchings, Rtn. (Engr.) Alexander Chukwu and Dr. Nwadiuto Iheakanwa.
The presence of the distinguished guests underscored the significance of the occasion and the confidence surrounding the new club’s service mandate.
₦130 MILLION: A LANDMARK VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN SERVICE
One of the most remarkable highlights of the investiture was the extraordinary philanthropic commitment by the Chairman of the Occasion, Chief Tunde Fanimokun (Agba Akin), Chairman/Founder, DSE Foundation, who donated an impressive ₦130 million towards the humanitarian projects of Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige.
The landmark contribution represented more than financial support; it was a powerful vote of confidence in the club’s vision and its determination to translate Rotary ideals into measurable impact in communities.
With such strategic support, the club’s ambitious humanitarian agenda received a significant boost as it prepares to pursue projects spanning healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, youth development and community empowerment.
THE COLLARETTE: A SYMBOL OF TRUST, LEADERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITY
A defining moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the Rotary collarette to Rotarian Winifred Ebiye, formally affirming her responsibility as the Charter President of Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige.
The presentation, conducted under the supervision of District 9112 Governor Rotarian Layi Abidoye, represented by his Secretary, was witnessed by a strong gathering of Rotary leaders, including a good number of Past District Governors. The President of the sponsoring Rotary Club of Ikoyi, Rotarian Ehiogie, also joined in the moment.
As the collarette was placed around her neck, the hall erupted in resounding applause, cheers and congratulations—a powerful reminder that leadership in Rotary is not merely a position, but a mandate of trust, responsibility and service.
SIX NEW ROTARIANS JOIN THE FAMILY
The occasion also witnessed the induction of six new members, further strengthening the membership and service capacity of the young club.
The new Board of Directors and inner cabinet for the 2026–2027 Rotary year were equally unveiled to work alongside the Charter President in advancing the club’s vision.
Among the leadership team are Ojiugo Irene O., President Elect; Obianuju Nwajiobi, Director of Service Projects; Dr. Betty Adepoju, Secretary; Oludare Shobola, Treasurer; Julie Obi, Director of Membership; Segun Oyebade, Director of Public Image; Adefunke Smith, Club Administration; Nduneche Ezurike, PhD, Director of Rotary Foundation; Sonijohn Nimi-Johnson, Director of Youth Service; and Benny Salubi, Sergeant-at-Arms.
Together, the leadership team represents a blend of experience, professionalism and commitment to the Rotary ideal of Service Above Self.
ROYAL PRESENCE AND A TOUCH OF FELLOWSHIP
Adding royal splendour to the celebration was the presence of His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja I, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni of Ife, who graced the occasion as the Royal Father of the Day.
In his opening remarks, the revered monarch commended Rotary for its humanitarian activities and expressed his willingness to support and honour Rotary initiatives whenever invited.
Another memorable moment came before the official commencement of the investiture activities when Rotarian Winifred Ebiye surprised General Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu with a special birthday cake, creating a warm and memorable moment of fellowship at the gathering.
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HONOURING SUPPORT FOR HUMANITY AND SERVICE
The investiture also provided an opportunity to recognise distinguished Nigerians whose contributions, encouragement and support align with the humanitarian mission of Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige.
Among those honoured were His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr. Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja I, Arole Oduduwa; General Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu; Chief Tunde Fanimokun; Rear Admiral IE Shehu; PAG Bala Yesufu; PDC Kamoru Omotosho; IPP Clare Omatseye; Prince Bisi Olatilo; Mr. Charles Oputa (Charly Boy); and Dr. Carolyn Hutchings.
The recognitions celebrated individuals whose influence, service, goodwill and support continue to strengthen humanitarian causes and community development.
WOMEN IN ROTARY HONOURS ROTARIAN WINIFRED EBIYE FOR EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP
Women in Rotary, District 9112, celebrated Rotarian Winifred Ebiye during her grand investiture as Charter President of the Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige. Led by Rtn. Labo Johnson, Chairman, Women in Rotary, alongside Rtn. Gertie Onyewuche, Impactful President of Rotary Club of Victoria Island, and other members, the delegation expressed solidarity and support for her new leadership chapter.
In recognition of her exemplary leadership, commitment to Service Above Self, and outstanding representation of women, Rotarian Winifred Ebiye received an Award of Special Recognition. The honour celebrates her impact, inspires greater service, and underscores her role as a distinguished advocate for women’s leadership and empowerment.
CELEBRATION OF FELLOWSHIP AND GOODWILL
Beyond the formalities of investiture, the occasion was a grand celebration of friendship, fellowship and goodwill. Guests were treated to a selection of delicious local and continental meals, alongside alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including wine.
Special souvenirs were also presented, while goodwill messages, heartfelt tributes and warm felicitations added colour and emotion to the celebration.
The atmosphere reflected the spirit of Rotary—bringing people together not simply to celebrate leadership, but to build relationships capable of producing meaningful change.
FROM VISION TO LASTING IMPACT
For Rotarian Winifred Ebiye, the new responsibility represents a significant progression in a distinguished journey of communication, public image, leadership and service.
Her administration is positioned around a clear philosophy: prestige must be demonstrated through service, leadership must be measured by impact, and every opportunity to serve should translate into a better life for someone.
With the club already setting its sights on impactful initiatives across healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, youth development and community empowerment, Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige begins its journey with an ambitious mandate.
As the collarette now rests proudly on the shoulders of its Charter President, a new chapter has begun—one defined by purpose, responsibility, partnership and service.
