The Rotary Clubs of Abeokuta Royal, led by President, Rtn. Adetonike Ganiyat Kazeem, on Sunday hosted an international friendship exchange with Rotarians from Uganda and Tanzania.
Our correspondent gathered that the event marked the first official fellowship of the new Rotary year with the theme “The Irresistible Magic Rotary Year.”
In attendance included, AG Dayo Niyi Idowu – Assigned Assistant Governor, PP Ajibola Somoye – Club Adivser, Rtn. Henry Adedokun – Irresistible President, RC of Rockcity, Rtn. Abiodun Ogundaini – Irresistible President, RC of Abeokuta Metro, Rtn. Hon. Lamide Lawal – Hope President, RC of Olumo Sunrise, PP Aremu Babatunde – RC of Abeokuta Metro, PP Kazeem Adeoti – RC of Abeokuta among others.
The visiting Rotarians included “PDG Kenneth Mugisha, RC of Muyenga, Rtn. Rebecca Nagidde (Phf + 2) RC Muyenga Sunday Sunset D9214, AG Rtn. Namakuka. N, RC Muyenga Tankhill D9214 and Rtn. Magazine Roselyn Tusiime, RC of Kabarole.
Speaking at the meeting, Rtn. Adetonike, fondly called the “Irresistible Magical President,” expressed her excitement about the exchange, stating that it would strengthen the club’s partnerships and lead to meaningful projects.
She emphasized the significance of the visit, which coincided with the installation of the new District Governor, DG Wole Kukoyi, and provided an opportunity for the visiting Rotarians to tour District 9111 and experience Abeokuta’s culture.
Reflecting on her tenure as president, Rtn. Adetonike noted the club’s growth over the past seven months and emphasized the importance of friendship exchanges in fostering partnerships and collaborations on programs and projects.
According to her “We have a series of projects coming up. This new month is focused on maternal and childcare. This month is also my investiture month, and it’s going to be a two-day event. On the first day, we are empowering almost 50 widows and widowers at Papa Lantoro on the 27th. ”
“We are also having a friendly football match to show that Rotary is all about friendship. This will also take place on the 27th, while the day I will officially be installed as the irresistible, magical president of Abeokuta Royal, on the 28th of July at the Rotary House behind Nipco Filling State, along Abiola Way.” She concluded.
While addressing journalists, the visiting Rotarians, led by PDG Kenneth Wycliffe Mugisha, RC of Muyenga represented the President, Rotary International and District 9214 in Uganda and Tanzania praised the warm hospitality of their Nigerian hosts.
PDG Mugisha emphasized the importance of the international friendship exchange tour as to fostering global understanding and unity.
His words “Rotary International Friendship Exchanges are encouraged every year, and today we are seeing many more happening. I’m honored that District 9111 has so many exchanges in different parts of the world, connecting Rotarians and allowing us to understand cultures from various countries.
“We enjoy the cuisine, like the way we relish Amala in Uganda, and develop everlasting friendships with the people we meet along the way. These exchanges are crucial in strengthening our bond as Rotarians and fostering unity without borders.”
While speaking on the trip, PDG Mugisha said “This trip, as someone who has been to Nigeria on other friendship exchanges, was about the team I led this time. For most of them, it was their first time in Nigeria, and they have appreciated the warm, friendly, and kind nature of Nigerians. Our hosts have received us in a very special way, showcasing the true hospitality of Nigeria.”
On his part, a member of the Rotary Committee of the United States and past district Governor of District 9111, Rtn. Benedict Osilamo Omale emphasized the program’s significance in fostering international friendship, cultural exchange, and better living.
He expressed his believe that “Rotarians can inspire faith and promote peace through the friendship program, citing the saying, “When there’s a will, there’s always a way.”
The visit also toured some historical and joint places in Abeokuta which included Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, Budget and Planning , Olumo Rock, Amala Joint 24hrs, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) and Pepper soup join, popularly known as Saheed Eleja.
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