From grand receptions to a dinner in his honour, Nigeria hosts a landmark Rotary visit, celebrating service, fellowship, and global impact.
LAGOS, NIGERIA – Between the 13th and 19th of February 2026, Nigeria became the global epicenter of humanitarian fellowship as it hosted Francesco Arezzo, President of Rotary International, and his spouse, Anna Maria Criscione-Arezzo.
Jointly hosted by Rotary District 9111 and Rotary District 9112, the landmark visit stood as a powerful demonstration of unity, collaboration, and the 2025–2026 presidential theme: “Unite for Good.”
A WARM NIGERIAN WELCOME
The President’s arrival on Friday, February 13th, was met with a grand reception led by the six District Governors representing Rotary’s presence across Nigeria — a symbolic show of national unity and shared purpose. National coordination for this historic visit was expertly handled by PDG Andy Uwejeyan, whose leadership ensured seamless collaboration across districts.
SERVICE IN ACTION: STRENGTHENING HEALTHCARE
True to Rotary’s enduring motto of Service Above Self, the President’s first engagements were impact-driven. Following a press conference, President Arezzo visited General Hospital Odan, Lagos, where he commissioned the Rotary Club of Ikoyi Metro Star Project — a transformative initiative involving the rehabilitation, renovation, and equipping of Wards C1 and C2.
The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reinforcing Rotary’s strong partnership with government in advancing healthcare delivery and community development.
CEREMONY, CULTURE, AND GLOBAL FELLOWSHIP
The official fellowship gathering commenced with the ceremonial arrival of the Rotary International President, followed by the Rotary Anthem and the Nigerian National Anthem — a symbolic fusion of global fellowship and national pride.
The evening featured vibrant cultural displays celebrating Nigeria’s heritage, alongside special recognition of Major Donors and distinguished contributors to The Rotary Foundation. A defining highlight was the presentation of commemorative gifts by District Governors — led prominently by District 9111 and District 9112 — symbolizing unity and appreciation within the Rotary family.
DINNER IN HONOUR OF THE ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT
On Saturday, February 14th, Rotarians and distinguished guests gathered at the elegant Marriott Hotel Ikeja for a grand dinner held in honour of the Rotary International President — a defining highlight of the historic visit.
The evening brought together an extraordinary gathering of Rotary leaders and dignitaries from across Nigeria and the global Rotary family. Among the distinguished personalities present was Yinka Babalola, the Nigerian engineer and incoming RI President (2026–2027), poised to become only the second African to lead the global organization. Also in attendance was Ijeoma Pearl Okoro, Trustee of The Rotary Foundation and a globally respected advocate of the End Polio Now initiative.
Guests were treated to an abundance of fine cuisine and refreshing drinks, creating an atmosphere of elegance, warmth, and high-level networking. Rotarians forged new friendships while strengthening long-standing bonds in the true spirit of Rotary fellowship.
A deeply symbolic moment came during the presentation of gifts by District Governors and their spouses, particularly from the host district leaders — Lanre Adedoyin of District 9112 and Henry Akinyele of District 9111. Their gestures reflected deep appreciation and unity across the Rotary family.
The evening also featured the recognition of distinguished members who have made significant contributions to The Rotary Foundation. Honourees included recipients of the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognition and Major Donor acknowledgments, including members of the Arch Klumph Society (AKS) — individuals who have contributed $10,000 and above toward Rotary’s humanitarian causes worldwide.
The “United Presidents” of District 9112, captained by Rtn. Irivboje Ajayi, MD, formed a guard of honour — a powerful representation of over 20 clubs united behind the President’s vision.
THE VISIONARY BEHIND THE THEME
President Francesco Arezzo, an orthodontist from Ragusa, Italy, has been a dedicated Rotarian for more than three decades. A Major Donor and Benefactor of The Rotary Foundation, he is also known for his passion for environmental sustainability and the arts. His presidency continues to emphasize a timeless truth: when Rotarians unite, their collective impact transcends borders.
BEHIND THE SCENES: THE PLANNING COMMITTEE.
The flawless execution of this historic visit was driven by the District 9112 Planning Committee, led by:PDG Ifeyinwa Ejezie – Chairman (RC Ikoyi Metro)DES Omotunde Olaleye – RC VGC PAG Akeem Sunmonu – RC Lagos Mainland They were supported by a dedicated team whose commitment ensured a memorable and impactful presidential visit.
A GLORIOUS FINALE
The historic gathering came to a memorable close with a heartfelt appreciation message from the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Ifeyinwa Rita Ejezie. She expressed profound gratitude to Rotarians, partners, and friends of Rotary across the globe whose support made the visit a resounding success — a fitting end to a week defined by unity, service, and lasting humanitarian impact.
