By Muhammad Amaan
The Rotary International District 9126 has reiterated its commitment to eradication of polio and 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 club’s Governor, Dr Funkeakpo Batife, stated this on Monday in Akure at a news conference heralding the District Conference holding from May 7 to 9.
Batife highlighted that the sheer scale of the region, particularly Niger State with 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 remained the driving force behind their operations.
The governor added that the upcoming conference, themed “Unite for Good, Collaborating for Impact”, was designed to celebrate yearly milestones and serve as a strategic planning session for future humanitarian interventions.
“A major pillar of the current year’s success is the district’s aggressive stance on polio eradication by the rotary club.
“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 localised these efforts by installing 49 awareness billboards in eradicating polio.
“We have successfully engaged the governors of these states to lead public immunisation drives through active advocacy,” he said.
Batife explained that apart from public health initiatives, the district reported 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 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 ex-Gov. Olusegun Mimiko, and specialised sessions on security and taxation.
Batife said 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 the members.
