Okin seeks unity, service as he takes over Rotary District 9126 leadership

THE new District Governor of Rotary International District 9126, Olaniyi Okin, has pledged to strengthen the district through membership growth, support for the Rotary Foundation, polio eradication efforts, and community service.

Speaking at his investiture in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, Okin described his emergence as the district’s third governor as ‘a sacred trust’ and promised to lead with humility and service.

He said Rotary leadership is about sacrifice and leaving communities better than they were found, adding that his administration will align with Rotary International president, Olayinka Hakeem Babalola’s theme: ‘Create lasting impact.’

He said success will be measured by lives touched, hope restored, and legacies left behind, not by the number of activities carried out.

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Okin said his administration will build on past achievements and hand over a stronger, more united, and impactful district.

He identified membership development as a key priority and urged clubs to recruit and retain quality members.

He also reaffirmed the district’s commitment to the ‘End Polio Now’ campaign, promising continued advocacy, education, and fundraising until polio is eradicated.

Okin paid tribute to past district governors for laying a solid foundation for the district’s growth.

In his remarks, Babalola urged Rotarians worldwide to share personal stories of how Rotary has transformed their lives, saying this could help address declining membership.

“If Rotary is such a transformative organisation that changes lives, how come it is struggling with membership? There is a disconnect,” he said.

He challenged every Rotarian to become an ambassador for the organisation by telling their stories of transformation.