The Rotary Club of Ilorin Prestige has installed Rotarian Dr Kehinde Adebobola Obaniyi as the 4th President of the Club, with a call on the people to be the gift to the world by contributing their quota to the development of humanity.
The investiture ceremony which took place at Princess Luxury Hotel Ilorin at the weekend, had eminent personalities from all walks of life in attendance.
The programme featured award presentation on some eminent individuals in recognition of their services to humanity.
Rotarian Dr Kehinde Adebobola Obaniyi was installed with members of the Board of Directors including Rotarian Olaoluwa Samuel Bankole (VP and Club Administrator); Rotarian Maryam Ibraheem (Secretary); Rotarian Mrs Adepeju Sarumi (Treasurer); Rotarian Funmilayo Oguns (Immediate Past President); Rotarian Mrs Adepeju Obaniyi ( SAA and Mama Rota Kids); Rotarian Akinola Olufemi James Phf (Rotary Foundation); Rotarian Gbenga Olaifa (Membership Chair); Rotarian Dr Khadijat Toyin Musah (Chair, Public Image/ Editor-in-chief Prestige bulletin) and Rotarian Michael Oladunjoye (Project Chair).
Some of the awardees include PDG Jumoke Bamigboye; AG Michael Oguntoye, Rotarian Vera Zuhar David, Mr Ayantola Gbemiga Malomo and Chief Mrs Olori Folake Elizabeth Olaifa.
Other awardees are Rotarian Yusuf Ali from Abuja, Kwara State Commandant of NSCDC, Commandant Umar J.G. Muhammed, Kwara State Commissioner for Environment, Hon Dhanusa Usman, Rotarian Dr Sarumi, Rotarian Youssef Sanders, Rotarian Dr Caroline Lao Phf, Rotarian Alabi Quadri, Rotarian Seun Ayinla, Rotarian Felix Akinseye and Rotarian Yemi Olawale from Ibadan Oritamefa among others.
The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr Kayode Alabi was represented at the event by AG Michael Oguntoye, members of Rotary Club of Ilorin Metro, Ilorin GRA, Fate Neighborhood, Ilorin New Dawn, Ilorin Sunrise, Ilorin Diamond,
Offa Cosmopolitan among others also witnessed the investiture ceremony.
Rotarian Obaniyi in his acceptance speech shortly after the investiture, said the slogan of the Club “The
Pride of Rotary”, holds significant meaning to him and pledged to uphold it as a source of pride for Rotary in Kwara, District 9125, Nigeria, and the entire Rotary International community.
The President implored members of the Club to continue with their exemplary efforts and strive to surpass the previous achievements in this new Rotary year, 2023/2024.
“Let us remember that our purpose is to Create Hope for those who have lost it, guiding them towards the light of a brighter future and showcasing the goodness of this world through our actions as Rotarians”, he said.
He commended the Club’s past leaders for their commendable work, as their efforts have paved the way for him to assume this role.
“I am reminded of the essential principle of continuity in Rotary, and I assure you that our five year strategic plan remains valid throughout my Rotary year, which I shall diligently follow. I urge you all to leave the past behind and join hands in rebuilding our beloved club, dedicating ourselves to impactful Rotary service within our local community and the world at large.
“I solemnly promise to dedicate myself to the following: Club development and accountability, I will prioritize meticulous record keeping, regular updates, active member involvement, and the welfare of our members. My commitment to Rotary extends beyond mere words; it encompasses the well- being of every member.
“Support for the Rotary Foundation: I will fulfill our financial obligations to the Rotary Foundation, recognizing the pivotal role it plays in enabling us to make a positive impact on communities worldwide
“Creating Hope: I will lead initiatives that profoundly impact lives and the environment, extending our projects to communities in need, spreading hope and fostering sustainable
development.
“I humbly acknowledge that I am not immune to making mistakes, but I assure you that I will be an attentive and receptive leader, seeking guidance from our esteemed district leaders as mentors. I earnestly implore all of you to effectively utilize our three Ts- Treasure, Talent, and Time in all areas of Rotary’s focus, adhering to our Four-Way Test and Rotary Code of Conduct as guiding principles in all our Rotary endeavors”.
In her welcome address, the Chairperson of Investiture Planning Committee, Past Assistant Governor Kadijah Toyin Musah said the Rotary Club of Ilorin Prestige has a tradition of serving the community and the world. “We believe in the power of individuals to come together, to put Service Above Self, and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it the most”.
“Today, we come together to celebrate the commitment and leadership which is vital to our continued success. As we install our new HOPE President into this esteemed position, we do so with great anticipation for the future of our Club”.
Dr Khadijat Toyin Musah said the role of the President is not merely symbolic but a position of responsibility, trust, and dedication, adding that the role carries the torch of leadership and is an opportunity to shape the path that Rotary Club will tread in the coming years.
She said Rotarian Kehinde Adebobola Obaniyi has exemplified the Rotary ideals in every aspect of his life, saying that “we are confident that he will continue to lead us with passion, dedication, and innovation. We have full faith that under his guidance, our club will reach new heights and make more significant impact on our community and beyond”.
“I would like to extend our gratitude to the past presidents of our dear club for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment during their tenure. Their leadership have been a source of inspiration, and we are grateful for the legacy they left behind.
“In closing, let us remember that Rotary is not just an organization; it is a family of like-minded individuals who are bound together by a common purpose – to make the world a better place. With Rotarian Kehinde Adebobola Obaniyi at the helm, I am confident that we will continue to work together, serve together, and create lasting positive change together”, she said.
The Guest Speaker, Past District Governor Jumoke Bamigboye, who spoke on the topic “Be a gift to the world”, said everyone is blessed with a gift that will have impact on the life of others.
“Giving to the world is not only about cash but kindness as well. You can impact the life of others and be a gift to their lives through kindness, laughter, problem solving, empathy among others”.
She described service to humanity as one of the purpose of creation, adding that Rotary Club gives opportunity to people to contribute to advancement of humanity
“People should join Rotary Club to change life. The greatest benefit of being a Rotarian is the opportunity to give back to the society. Rotary Club needs our contributions to improve life and create a better world”.
The programme featured presentation of Club projects, award presentation for humanitarian services, while equipment and cash empowerment items including sewing machine and grinding machine were also presented to some selected beneficiaries.
Dr Kehinde Adebobola Obaniyi is an educational consultant, an entrepreneur and a lecturer at Zoology Department, Kwara State University (KWASU) Malete.
