ABUJA- The Rotary Club of Wuse Central, on Saturday celebrated its 25th anniversary, and also installed its first female president, Folashade Samuel.
Samuel’s installation marks a turning point in the club’s legacy of inclusive leadership.
The silver jubilee and 27th presidential investiture ceremony was attended by top government officials, development partners, Rotarians and health experts.
They all praised the club’s record and called for bolder community action under the new leadership.
In her inaugural speech, Samuel outlined her vision for the Rotary Year 2025–2026, centred on the international theme “Unite for Good”.
“To say I am excited would be an understatement. My heart is overflowing with joy and purpose.
“Unite for Good is more than a theme, it is a call to collective action. When we come together, align our hearts, minds, and hands, there is no limit to the good we can achieve,” she said.
She pledged to scale the club’s humanitarian impact through innovation, accountability, and stronger collaboration with government and community-based organisations.
“We will continue to champion initiatives that uplift and bring hope, always seeking new ways to serve with compassion and impact,” she said.
She reaffirmed Rotary’s guiding values and called on members to uphold its ethical legacy through intentional service and leadership.
“The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say, or do remains a timeless ethical guide.
“It is applicable in every sphere of life, from the home and community to business, governance, international relations, and professional conduct.
She described the test as not just a Rotary mantra, but also a compass for integrity in everyday decisions and public life.
Tomola Emaleku, the outgoing president, commended the club’s achievements and expressed confidence in the new leadership.
“Today marks not just 25 years of Rotary Wuse Central, but a historic transition.
“I believe that our new president will lead with passion, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose,” Emaleku said.
Dr Charles Mensah, the Managing Director of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), urged the club to deepen partnerships with community-based organisations (CBOs) to enhance healthcare delivery.
Mensah also encouraged broader public support.
“We are at a very challenging time globally, especially in Nigeria, due to health funding shortfalls.
“Rotary fills critical gaps, and should now focus on diseases beyond polio.
“You do not have to be a Rotarian to help. Whether it is N1,000 or one billion Naira, every contribution matters,” he said.
Dr Oritseweyimi Ogbe, Secretary of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) Ministerial Oversight Committee, called for integrated health interventions.
“Rotary was key in the fight against polio. Now, it is time to reach deeper, create awareness, build trust, and provide comprehensive health support at the grassroots,” Ogbe said.
Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat (FCTA), applauded the new leadership.
Benjamins-Laniyi said that the Rotary theme aligned with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Rotary translates global goals into local action. Unite for Good is not just a message, it is a movement,” she said.
She urged women to lead with boldness and authenticity.
“Be the best woman you can be, not just in name but in influence, action, and heart,” she said.(NAN)
