By – Abdullahi A. Afolabi
Rotary International District 9111 is set to host its maiden District Conference (DISCON) from May 29 to June 1, 2025, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Themed the “Irresistible District Conference 2025,” this landmark event aims to foster fellowship, strategic dialogue, and impactful service among Rotarians across the district.
At a press conference held at the district headquarters in Ikeja GRA, District Governor Dr. Wole Kukoyi highlighted the conference’s significance in laying a solid foundation for the future of the newly established district. He announced that Past District Governor Eric Kimani from Kenya, representing Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick, will be among the distinguished guests.
The conference will commence with courtesy visits to traditional rulers, including HRM Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, and HRM Oba (Dr.) Adedapo Tejuoso, the Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, who is also a Past District Governor of Rotary District 9110.
Rotarian Busola Satuyi, Chair of the DISCON Committee, outlined a series of engaging activities planned for the conference. These include a novelty football match between Rotary District 9111 and Lions District 404-A3 at Afro Grammar School Stadium, Ita-Eko, Abeokuta, followed by an all-white welcome party at Kesington Hall, Abeokuta Sports Club.
The official opening ceremony on May 30 will be graced by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, with Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele delivering the keynote address. Notable speakers include Dr. Chizor Malize, Managing Director of the Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), who will discuss “Guidance of Integrity, Strengthening Compliance in NGOs to Combat Fraud and Money Laundering,” and Professor Ayodeji Agboola, Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, who will speak on peace-building and conflict prevention.
District Governor-Elect Rotarian Henry Akinyele emphasized that the conference will also serve as a platform to review and potentially amend district policies and bylaws, ensuring they align with current operational realities. He noted that such deliberations would be subjected to voting or referendums during the conference.
The press conference, covered by Rex Media NG, also featured other key members of the DISCON Committee, including Vice Chairman Rotarian Geonlebedum Alex, Entertainment Subcommittee Chair Past President Salau Funke, DisCon Committee Secretary Rotarian Ayo Dada, Programs & Protocols Head Rotarian Felix Nwagu, Logistics Lead PAG Kamal Opoola, and Publicity Subcommittee Chair Rotarian Ola Davies.
As Rotary District 9111 prepares for this historic event, the “Irresistible District Conference 2025” promises to be a milestone in the district’s journey, reflecting its commitment to service, leadership, and community development.
Rex Media Nigeria 