From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Rotary Club of Wuse Central in Abuja on Friday celebrated its 25th anniversary and the historic installation of its first female president, Dr Folashade Samuel, marking a major milestone in the club’s leadership journey.
Held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, the event also featured the 27th presidential investiture, drawing dignitaries including government officials, development partners, Rotarians, and health experts.
In her inaugural address, Dr Samuel said: “To say I’m excited would be an understatement. My heart is overflowing with joy and purpose.”
She pledged to lead the club under the Rotary International theme “Unite for Good”, promising to expand humanitarian impact through innovation, transparency, and strategic partnerships.
“Unite for Good is more than a theme—it’s a call to collective action. When we come together… there’s no limit to the good we can achieve,” she said.
Samuel urged members to uphold Rotary’s Four-Way Test as a moral compass: “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all?”
Immediate past president, Rtn Tomola Emaleku, praised the club’s growth and expressed optimism in the new leadership.
“Today marks not just 25 years of Rotary Wuse Central, but a historic transition. I believe our new president will lead with passion and purpose,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr Charles Olalekan Mensah, COO of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, urged stronger ties with community-based organisations to improve healthcare delivery.
“Rotary fills critical gaps. It should now focus on diseases beyond polio,” he said, encouraging public contributions to health efforts.
Dr Oritseweyimi Ogbe of the BHCPF Ministerial Oversight Committee echoed similar views, stating, “Rotary must now reach deeper—create awareness, build trust, and support health at the grassroots.”
FCTA Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, applauded the club’s inclusive leadership.
“Unite for Good is not just a message—it’s a movement,” she said. “Be the best woman you can be, not just in name, but in influence, action, and heart.”
The ceremony featured the unveiling of the club’s 2025/2026 community projects, award presentations, and donations from members and partners.