Rotary Clubs Unite to Promote Polio Awareness and Support Global Eradication
By Philip Afolabi
The Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Lekki Phase I, the Rotary Club of Bourdillon Prestige, Rotaract Club of Lekki Phase I, and Cycology Cycling Club, drove the global “End Polio Now” campaign through cycling and an awareness walk in Lekki and Ikoyi to commemorate World Polio Day on October 24, 2026.
Under the leadership of Rotarian Dr. Oluwaseun Jaiyesimi, President of the Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, the joint campaign reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio worldwide through public enlightenment, community engagement, and sustained support for immunisation.
The initiative featured cycling activities and a polio awareness walk along the Lekki–Ikoyi axis. Participants distributed flyers to members of the public, encouraging childhood immunisation and highlighting the importance of protecting children against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Although Nigeria has been declared free of wild poliovirus, the fight against polio remains a global responsibility. Continued awareness and support are essential to help countries where the disease remains a threat achieve a polio-free future.
Speaking during the campaign, Rotarian Dr. Oluwaseun Jaiyesimi emphasised the need to bring polio cases down to zero worldwide. He noted that Nigerians must continue to support global eradication efforts while sustaining public awareness about the importance of immunisation.
The campaign also created opportunities to deepen public understanding of Rotary’s humanitarian mission. Several members of the public expressed interest in learning how they could contribute to the fight against polio, while others enquired about joining Rotary clubs.
Distinguished personalities at the event included Worldwide Captain Ladipo Soetan, PAG Yemi Osilaja, PAG Funso, and PAG Rtn. Bala Yusuf, alongside Rotarians and representatives of the participating organisations.
In recognition of the cycling club’s contribution, PAG Funso presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Cycology Cycling Club. Rtn. Dimeji, speaking on behalf of the cycling group, expressed gratitude for the recognition and called for continued collaboration on future initiatives.
The campaign demonstrated the value of partnerships among Rotary clubs and community organisations in advancing public health awareness. Through their collective efforts, the participating clubs reaffirmed their commitment to supporting immunisation, promoting healthier communities, and contributing to a world free of polio.
TOGETHER, WE WILL END POLIO NOW!
