A night of fellowship, generosity, and Service Above Self supporting The Rotary Foundation
The Rotary Foundation Fundraiser, themed “Endless Impact,” brought together Rotarians, partners, and well-wishers in a night of generosity and purpose, aimed at supporting The Rotary Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives. The event held on Sunday, February 8, at the prestigious Shell Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, celebrated the spirit of Service Above Self, showcasing how Rotary’s collective efforts continue to transform lives across communities.
HOSTED BY DISTRICT 9112 ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
The fundraiser was hosted by Rotary International District 9112, under the leadership of District Governor Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin, who graced the event alongside his wife, Iyabo Adedoyin, and his distinguished entourage. Their presence and leadership reinforced Rotary’s mission and set the tone for an evening dedicated to impactful humanitarian service.
LEADERSHIP AND WELCOME ADDRESS
The event was spearheaded by Assistant Governor Macdonald O. Ukaeru, Chairman of the Foundation Fundraising Committee. In his remarks, he emphasized that contributions to The Rotary Foundation strengthen programs that promote peace, fight disease, support education, provide clean water, grow local economies, and protect the environment. He reminded attendees that even small acts of giving create a ripple effect, producing an Endless Impact in communities.
CHIEF HOST AND ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT-ELECT
The evening was further elevated by the presence of Rotarian Yinka Babalola, Rotary International President-Elect for the 2026–2027 Rotary year, who will become the second African to serve as Rotary International President. A Rotarian since 1988 and member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, he encouraged attendees to sustain generosity and make a lasting impact through Rotary service.
Rotarian Babalola, an advocate for Polio Eradication, serves as Adviser to the Nigeria National PolioPlus Committee, Trustee of ShelterBox UK, and member of the Arch Klumph Society, Rotary’s highest recognition for Foundation giving. His accolades include the Rotary International Service Above Self Award, the Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service, and recognition as an Africa Centennial Hero.
ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE AND DISTRICT LEADERS
Rotarian Ijeoma Pearl Okoro, Rotary Foundation Trustee and member of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt, attended the event. She serves as Assistant Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator and Endowment & Major Gifts Adviser, contributing decades of leadership experience to strengthening Rotary’s humanitarian mission.
Dr. Jide Akeredolu, Chair of the District 9112 Rotary Foundation Committee, also attended, exemplifying Service Above Self in action.
CHAIRMAN OF THE OCCASION
The fundraiser was chaired by Prince Dr. Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, mni, OFR, LLD, the first District Governor of Rotary International District 911 and the doyenne of Rotary districts in Nigeria. Sharing his Rotary journey, he encouraged all members to embrace a spirit of giving. Prince Dr. Adelusi-Adeluyi is also Chairman and Founder of Juli Plc, a company listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, a former Federal Minister of Health, Past Chairman of Odua Investment Company Limited, Distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Directors, Pioneer President of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy, and Chairman of the MTN Foundation.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Adedolapo Akinrele, SAN, an esteemed legal professional and member of the Rotary Club of Victoria Island. He is Associate Editor of the Global Oil, Gas & Energy Law (OGEL) publication, Consulting Contributor to Professor Piero Bernardini, LUISS University, Rome, and Board Member of the Oxford Journal of World Energy Law and Business. His address highlighted leadership, ethics, and the importance of sustained support for Rotary’s humanitarian initiatives.
MAJOR DONORS AND SUPPORTERS
Luminaries (Major Donors):
Rtn. Richard Edi (PP, RC Mende Midtown); Rotarian Hope Uwagboe (RC Ikorodu); Rtn. Emmanuel Efuntayo (RC Ikoyi).
Champions:
AG Laurine, PP Adetayo Tajudeen Yusuf, CP Gbenga Arafe, PHF, Rotn. Wale Akinwale, Rotn. Alexander Chukwu.
Patrons and Matrons
PAG Sir Chinedu Uche Ebo (RC Victoria Island East); Rotarian Kennedy N. Maduewesi (RC Victoria Island East); Rotarian Olusola Agboola (RC Mushin Golden); Rtn. Oluyemi Jaiyesimi (RC Ikeja); Rotarian Amb. Akinpelu Marian Anita (RC Gbagada South).
Heroes:
PAG Nike Maiyaki, Princess Pemi Adereti, IPDG Oluwole Kukoyi, PP Olusegun Dave, PP Oladimeji Oluwaseun, IPP Oyebanke Adeboyejo.
Additional supporters included Rotarian Pharm. Clare Omatseye (President, RC Ikoyi), Rtn. Toki Mabogunje, AG Ademola Olutusin, Rtn. Francisca Titilola (RC Surulere), PP Nkeiruka Akarutu Balogun, and Rtn. Abhishek Srivastava (President, RC Eko Atlantic).
STEERING COMMITTEE RECOGNITION
The success of the event was made possible through the tireless efforts of the Steering Committee, whose members worked behind the scenes to ensure a seamless and impactful programme. With gratitude to God, the members were recognized for their leadership:
AG Macdonald O. Ukaeru (Chairman);
CP Gbenga Afere, PHF (Vice Chairman);
Rtn. Zelda Obuseh (Secretary);
PP Olayinka Patunola-Ajayi, mni (Chairman, EREY);
Rotn. Emmanuel Efuntayo (Chairman, Endowment Fund);
PP Richard Edi (Chairman, Entertainment);
Rotn. Sen. Jaiyesimi (Chairman, Venue & President-Elect, RCVIE);
AG Dr. Laurine Ubanzie (Chairman, Registration);
PP Omena Osugo (Chairman, Logistics).
Their dedication, coordination, and commitment to Service Above Self ensured the event was a resounding success, setting a benchmark for future Rotary fundraisers.
The evening demonstrated that through Rotary fellowship, generosity, and commitment to The Rotary Foundation, every contribution creates an Endless Impact, changing lives locally and globally.
