Abiola Peters
Nigeria has benefitted support of over four point five billion dollars to several humanitarian projects from the Rotary Foundation, the charitable arm of Rotary International.
Stakeholders in Rotary International District 9112, echoed this as they commemorate the 120 years of establishment of Rotary International and Rotary Foundation Dinner and Dance, held in Victoria Island, Lagos.
In his address, the pioneer Governor of District 9112, Rotarian Olufemi Adenekan, explained that the district being a direct beneficiary of such support, consider it necessary to celebrate the anniversary of the organisation and honour outstanding donors, thereby inspiring them and others to do more to charity.
Speaking on the Dinner theme,’ Rotary Foundation, the Heart of Giving’, the Guest Speaker, Elder Urum Kalu Eke,
reminded members that Rotary International occupies an enviable seat in the United Nations and that Rotarians should be ever proud of being through- bred professionals and industry leaders who make no less than five percent contribution to the national economy.
Elder Kalu Eke, also a prestigious Rotarian, encouraged all Rotarians to continue to stand for the less privileged ones, insisting that everyone must rise for a better society.
Chairman of the occasion and a Past District Governor, Dr Micheal Olawale – Cole, called for a recommitment of all Rotarians to the ideals of Service Above Self, Fellowship, Diversity, Integrity and Leadership,so as to create a more just, peaceful and equitable world.
Chairman, Rotary Foundation Dinner and Dance Planning Committee, Past President Omotunde Olaleye said it was the inaugural edition to celebrate the spirit of service fellowship and philanthropy as well as further raising of funds to the tune of one million dollars to impact positively on humanity.
Dr Jide Akeredolu, Past District Governor and Foundation Chair, described the event especially the one million dollars fundraising as a demonstration of pure altruism by donating to causes they do not know about.
High point of the event included presentation of awards of honour to personalities including Her Regal Majesty, Olori Temitope Enitan – Ogunwusi, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Mr Seni Adetu, Chief Mrs Maria Olateju – Philips, Basorun Peter Ogunbayo and Dr Augustine Onwumere among others whose cumulative donations have reached two hundred and fifty thousand dollars.