Say election shows Nigerians can lead on global stage

Former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran; former Nigerian Envoy to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, and others, yesterday, said that the emergence of Olayinka Hakeem Babalola as President of Rotary International demonstrates that Nigerians possess the capacity to provide exemplary leadership on the global stage.

They all spoke in Ibadan during a reception organised by the Jericho Businessmen Club (JBC) to honour Babalola following his election as President of Rotary International for 2026/2027.

Adeniran, while describing Babalola’s rise from a grassroots member of Rotary to the organisation’s highest office as an extraordinary accomplishment, said the achievement should inspire Nigerians, especially the younger generation, to pursue excellence, integrity and selfless service.

According to him, Babalola’s emergence is worthy of celebration because it reflects Nigeria’s abundant human potential despite the country’s socio-economic challenges.

The former minister noted that Rotary International has earned worldwide recognition for its humanitarian interventions, particularly its campaign to eradicate polio, as well as programmes in education, healthcare, peace-building and community development.

He said Babalola’s leadership journey exemplifies the ideals of the organisation, having committed his professional expertise, time and personal resources to serving humanity rather than pursuing personal gain.

Bolaji, who described Babalola’s emergence as further proof that excellence can come from Nigeria, said Nigerians should draw lessons from the Rotary leader’s commitment to making meaningful impact through service.

Chairman of the occasion, Samson Bamidele, described Babalola’s election as a rare privilege for Nigeria, saying that the country was fortunate to produce the President of Rotary International.

In his welcome address, President of the Jericho Businessmen Club, Tunji Gafaar, said Babalola’s emergence had brought global recognition to Ibadanland, Oyo State, Nigeria and the African continent.

In his response, Babalola expressed appreciation to the club for the honour, describing the recognition by members of his home community as deeply gratifying.

Babalola noted that he is only the second African and second Nigerian to serve as President of Rotary International, following the late Bola Majiyagbe, who held the office in the 2003/2004 Rotary year.