By Esther Onyegbula

In a major move to strengthen youth leadership and community development, the Rotaract Club District 9111 has trained more than 120 young leaders from Lagos and Ogun States in a two-day leadership seminar held in Ejigbo, Lagos, ahead of the 2025/2026 Rotary year.

The President-Elect Learning Seminar and District Learning Assembly, which ran from May 16 to 17, aimed to equip incoming club presidents, officers, and district leaders with strategic tools for effective service delivery under the incoming leadership.

At the core of the seminar was a vision to prepare the next generation of changemakers with practical leadership, strategic planning, and community service skills.

“This training is about more than titles, it’s about shaping leaders who will make a real difference,” said Rtr. Halilu Senu Awesu, the incoming District Rotaract Representative (DRR). “We are focusing on engagement, expansion, and elevation as key pillars to amplify our district’s impact.”

The seminar marks a critical step for Rotaract District 9111, which emerged as an independent district in the Rotary structure in recent years. Attendees participated in interactive workshops, networking sessions, and leadership drills to hone their readiness for the challenges ahead.

Outgoing DRR Rtr. Saka Oriyomi, who led the district through its foundational year, described the journey as transformative.
“Establishing and running the first-ever District 9111 was no small feat, but we’ve built a strong foundation. The real proof is in the people, our members have grown professionally, personally, and socially through Rotaract,” he said.

Rtn. Ezinne Obiha, Chair of the District Rotaract Community, emphasized the importance of visibility, urging participants to be intentional about storytelling. “We must boldly share our achievements, not for applause, but to inspire others to join this movement,” she said.

District Governor-Elect Rtn. Prince Henry Akinyele also pledged Rotary’s continued support for Rotaract clubs. “Recognition isn’t just about awards, it’s about leaving a legacy of leadership and impact,” he said, encouraging the incoming leaders to prioritize membership growth and deeper engagement.

As the 2025/2026 Rotary year approaches, the district’s leadership expressed optimism that the new cohort of officers would deliver “record-breaking achievements” in service, collaboration, and innovation.

Rotaract, the youth wing of Rotary International, continues to serve as a platform for young professionals and students to lead initiatives in health, education, peacebuilding, and economic development.

The seminar ended with a call for action: to lead with purpose, tell their stories boldly, and unite communities for meaningful change.