Rotary’s Spirit of “Service Above Self” Comes Alive as Healthcare Experts, Corporate Partners and Rotarians Join Forces to Improve Maternal Healthcare, Save Lives and Strengthen Community Well-being
By Elitist Magazine
In a remarkable demonstration of Rotary’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and community development, the Rotary Club of Shomolu, in collaboration with fellow Rotary clubs across Rotary International Districts 9112 and 9126, the TGJ Medicare Foundation, and strategic healthcare partners, successfully organized the Mother & Child Wellness Day 2026 at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos.
The landmark humanitarian intervention, valued at approximately ₦5 million, focused on Maternal and Child Health and Disease Prevention, one of Rotary International’s Seven Areas of Focus. The programme brought together Rotarians, healthcare professionals, corporate organizations, development partners, community leaders, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and volunteers in a united effort to improve maternal healthcare, reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths, and promote healthier communities.
A DAY DEDICATED TO SAVING LIVES
The outreach commenced with free vital signs screening, followed by medical consultations, health education, practical demonstrations, panel discussions, and interactive workshops carefully designed to improve maternal and child healthcare.
Participants received expert guidance on healthy pregnancies, safe childbirth, newborn care, nutrition, disease prevention, and family wellbeing, reaffirming Rotary’s commitment to improving the quality of life in communities through sustainable humanitarian service.
DR. MRS. MODUPE ADEDEJI DELIVERS INSPIRING KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Mrs. Modupe Adedeji underscored the importance of quality maternal healthcare and the need for every expectant mother to register early for antenatal care at government-approved hospitals.
She explained that regular antenatal care enables healthcare professionals to monitor both mother and unborn child, detect pregnancy-related complications early, and provide timely medical interventions that significantly reduce maternal and infant mortality.
Dr. Adedeji further called on husbands, families, healthcare providers, and development partners to work together in ensuring that every pregnant woman has access to quality healthcare services, noting that safeguarding mothers and children is a collective responsibility.
DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S GOODWILL MESSAGE DELIVERED
The District Governor of Rotary International District 9112, Rotarian Olaiyoye Layi Abidoye, was represented by the District Executive Secretary, Arc. Tony Gigbokhan, who delivered the District Governor’s goodwill message.
He reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to advancing Maternal and Child Health through impactful humanitarian projects and strategic collaborations.
Arc. Gigbokhan commended the Rotary Club of Shomolu, the participating Rotary clubs, healthcare professionals, sponsors, and partners for demonstrating the true essence of Rotary through unity, compassion, and selfless service.
He described investment in maternal and child healthcare as an investment in the future of society and encouraged Rotarians to continue championing projects that transform lives and strengthen communities in line with Rotary’s guiding principle of Service Above Self.
ROTARY HONOURS LASUTH CMD
One of the defining moments of the event was the presentation of a Special Award of Honour to the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Professor Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, in recognition of his exemplary leadership, remarkable contributions to healthcare delivery, and unwavering support for Rotary’s humanitarian programmes.
Receiving the award, Professor Fabamwo expressed sincere appreciation to Rotary for the honour and pledged that LASUTH would always answer Rotary’s call whenever the need arises.
He also proudly disclosed that he is a Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Gbagada, stating that Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” continues to inspire his dedication to healthcare excellence and humanitarian service.
CELEBRATING MOTHERHOOD BEYOND HEALTHCARE
Beyond the medical outreach, the programme provided memorable moments of joy and emotional support for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
The dedicated LASUTH nursing team treated participants to energetic songs, dance performances, and light exercise sessions that transformed the venue into an atmosphere of celebration, hope, and encouragement.
The lively interaction highlighted the importance of emotional wellbeing during pregnancy while creating unforgettable memories for participants.
Adding excitement to the event, Jezze Medicals & Maternity Store, one of the programme’s major sponsors, organized an engaging “Spin and Win” competition. Winners received attractive prizes, while Rotary clubs also presented numerous maternity essentials, baby-care materials, and other gift items to pregnant women and nursing mothers.
The thoughtful gesture reflected Rotary’s compassion and commitment to supporting mothers beyond healthcare services.
ROTARY CLUBS UNITE FOR GREATER IMPACT
The success of the humanitarian intervention demonstrated the strength of Rotary collaboration, with active participation from the Rotary Club of Shomolu, Rotary Club of Eleko Golden, Rotary Club of Ikeja Alausa Central, Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, Rotary E-Club of One Nigeria, Rotary Club of Lagos Island, Rotary Club of Minimah Estate, Rotary Club of Ikorodu Metro, Rotary Club of Revolution Lagos, Rotary Club of Alapere, and the Rotary Club of Gbagada.
The programme also enjoyed the generous support of Greater Walks Orthopaedics & Care Services, Jezze Medicals & Maternity Store, and Medireach Africa, whose partnership further strengthened the impact of the outreach.
ROTARY CLUB OF SHOMOLU PRESIDENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE HUMANITARIAN SERVICE
In his closing remarks, the President of the Rotary Club of Shomolu, Rotarian Adesanya, expressed profound appreciation to every Rotary club that participated in making the project a remarkable success.
He thanked the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Professor Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo, the hospital’s management, healthcare professionals, sponsors, and volunteers for their invaluable support and commitment.
Rotarian Adesanya emphasized that Maternal and Child Health is only one of Rotary International’s Seven Areas of Focus, assuring participants that Rotary would continue to collaborate with LASUTH and other strategic partners in delivering impactful humanitarian projects.
“This is only one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus. Maternal and Child Health is a continuous project for Rotary. We shall continue to collaborate with LASUTH and other stakeholders on future humanitarian interventions that will save more lives, strengthen our communities, and further enhance Rotary’s visibility and impact,” he stated.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR CHAMPIONS OF HEALTHCARE
The colourful event concluded with the presentation of Special Recognition Awards to the District Governor of Rotary International District 9112, Rotarian Olaiyoye Layi Abidoye, in appreciation of his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to Rotary’s humanitarian mission.
Several senior doctors and nurses of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) were also honoured for their exceptional professionalism, dedication, and outstanding contributions to quality healthcare delivery in Lagos State’s public health sector.
The awards celebrated their tireless efforts in saving lives, advancing maternal and child healthcare, and promoting excellence in public service. The recognition reaffirmed Rotary’s tradition of honouring individuals whose selfless commitment continues to create lasting impact in society.
A LASTING LEGACY OF SERVICE
The Mother & Child Wellness Day 2026 was far more than a healthcare outreach; it was a powerful expression of Rotary’s enduring commitment to humanity.
From life-saving health interventions and preventive healthcare education to emotional support, recognition of excellence, and the presentation of gifts to mothers, the programme reflected the transformative impact of collaboration between Rotary, healthcare institutions, corporate organizations, and development partners.
As beneficiaries departed with improved health awareness, practical support, renewed confidence, and smiles of gratitude, the event left an enduring legacy of hope and compassion.
The landmark initiative once again demonstrated that when People of Action unite under Rotary’s enduring motto of “Service Above Self,” lives are transformed, families are strengthened, and communities become healthier and more resilient.
Indeed, the Rotary Club of Shomolu and its collaborating clubs have once again set a shining example of humanitarian leadership, proving that selfless service remains the most powerful force for building a healthier, stronger, and more compassionate society.
