Reaffirms passion for service
Lions Clubs International District 404A3, Nigeria, in collaboration with Lions and Leos, recently held the Ikorodu Oga 2026 Convention with the theme “Passion for Service” at the Oluwatoyin Lions Activity Centre, Ikorodu, Lagos State, drawing delegates from across the district.

Declaring the convention open, District Governor, Lion Mary Onu, described the theme as timely and inspiring, noting that the gathering was aimed at strengthening unity, leadership and impact across communities.

“Today we are here to connect as Lions, to learn and, most importantly, to put ideas together on how to continue the service we carry out globally. We are also here to encourage Lions, family members and friends to join us so that we can put our heads together and continue to serve those most in need. This is the third district convention,” she said.

Speaking on achievements recorded under her tenure, Onu expressed delight at the growing participation in district activities. According to her, the convention recorded the highest number of delegates since the inception of District 404A3, a development she attributed to improved engagement and commitment among members.

Looking ahead, the governor said the district was focusing on deeper connections, leadership development and community impact. “After this convention, we are looking forward to greater connections and improved persons because we have many leadership trainings available. We want our members serving communities more effectively and, most importantly, bringing more hands into the group to serve,” she added.

On the take-home message for participants, Onu stressed the importance of belonging to a global family. “As a Lion, you have a huge family, not just in your club, zone or region, but as a district, a multiple district and a global family of over 1.4 million members. All are doing the same thing – serving people in need, one community at a time,” she said.

Past International Director, Trustee of Lions International and Chairman, Nigerian Lions Foundation, Hamed Olugbenga Babatunde Lawal, commended the district leadership for sustaining the annual convention. He praised Ikorodu for hosting the event, describing the town as “the home of hospitality.”

Lawal urged members to uphold the legacy of service, emphasising giving, contribution and responsiveness to emergencies. He noted that grants from the Lions Foundation had recently supported flood intervention in Ijede and encouraged Lions to strengthen national response mechanisms through the Nigerian Lions Committee.

Guest speaker, accountant Shoara Olalekan Popoola, addressed taxation and its implications for individuals, companies and organisations. He explained that no one is exempt from tax payment, stressing the need for registration and filing of returns, even for low-income earners. He added that recent reforms would see many people paying less tax than before.

Also speaking, 2nd Vice District Governor, Lamidi Bamidele Tajudeen, said the convention provided a platform to review activities, amend bylaws, fellowship and chart a better future. He urged Lions to double their efforts in service through talent, treasure and time, noting that more members translate to more service.

District Convention chairperson, Awoleke Awofeso, said the committee worked tirelessly for five months to deliver a successful event and wished members fruitful deliberations as the district moves forward in its mission of humanitarian service.