Rotary International District 9126 has reiterated its commitment to the eradication of polio and the development of public health across its seven-state jurisdiction.
The district, which covers Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo, Kogi, Niger, and Kwara states, serves a population of approximately 40 million people.
The district governor, Dr. Funkeakpo Batife, stated this on Monday in Akure at a news conference heralding the District Conference scheduled for May 7 to 9.
Batife highlighted that the sheer scale of the region—particularly Niger State, with about 70,000 square kilometers—presents significant logistical challenges.
He noted that road trips to reach remote clubs can exceed 20 hours, but maintained that the “Service Above Self” philosophy remains the driving force behind their operations.
The governor added that the upcoming conference, themed “Unite for Good, Collaborating for Impact,” is designed to celebrate yearly milestones and serve as a strategic planning session for future humanitarian interventions.
“A major pillar of this year’s success is the district’s aggressive stance on polio eradication.
“While Rotary has contributed over $2.9 billion globally to the cause, with $300 million directed to the Nigerian government as of January, District 9126 has localized these efforts by installing 49 awareness billboards to support polio eradication.
“We have successfully engaged the governors of these states to lead public immunization drives through active advocacy,” he said.
Batife explained that, apart from public health initiatives, the district has recorded substantial achievements in education and infrastructure, including the renovation of over 50 schools and the drilling of boreholes in more than 50 locations.
According to him, the district has also provided interest-free “soft loans” of N50,000 each to 364 individuals across the region to address immediate economic hardships.
He noted that all the projects were funded through a combination of local contributions exceeding $100,000 and reciprocal global grants totaling $201,000.
The governor said the upcoming conference would feature a keynote address by former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, as well as specialized sessions on security and taxation.
He added that Mr. Robert Wageri from Uganda would represent the Rotary International President.
The gathering will also include social highlights such as a “Fish Night” reception, a “Jeans and Karaoke” night, and a concluding Awards Night to showcase the diverse cultural heritage of members.
