Rotary Club Of Wuse Central Calls For Unified Health Action

The Rotary Club of Wuse Central marked its 25th anniversary and the historic installation of its first female president, Rotarian Folashade Samuel.

The silver jubilee and 27th presidential investiture, held in Abuja, was graced by government officials, health leaders, and development partners, all calling for deeper community action to improve health systems and social impact.

In her passionate inaugural address, Rtn Samuel pledged to scale the club’s humanitarian efforts through innovation, collaboration, and compassion, guided by the Rotary International 2025–2026 theme “Unite for Good.”

“Unite for Good is more than a theme, it’s a powerful call to collective action. When we align our hearts, minds, and hands, there’s no limit to the good we can achieve,” she stated.

Samuel reaffirmed Rotary’s ethical foundation through the Four-Way Test and encouraged members to serve with intentionality and integrity.

“From eradicating polio to building sustainable communities, our impact must be inclusive and accountable. We will continue to uplift lives, create hope, and deepen partnerships with local and government actors,” she said.

The outgoing president, Rtn Tomola Emaleku, praised the club’s legacy and expressed confidence in the incoming leadership.

“Today isn’t just a celebration of 25 years of Rotary Wuse Central, but a historic transition. I’m confident Rtn Samuel will lead with passion and purpose,” Emaleku stated.

Health leaders present urged the Rotary Club to leverage its grassroots network and expand its focus beyond polio to address broader health challenges.

The Chief Operating Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Dr Charles Olalekan Mensah, emphasised the urgent need for support amid declining health funding.

“Rotary has helped fill critical healthcare gaps. Now is the time to go further expand support, deepen partnerships, and tackle emerging health needs. You don’t have to be a Rotarian to help. Whether ₦1,000 or ₦1 billion, every contribution matters,“ he said.

Also, the Secretary of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) Ministerial Oversight Committee, Dr Oritseweyimi Ogbe, urged integrated health interventions.

“Rotary helped lead the war against polio. Now, let us go beyond, build trust, and deliver health care in an integrated way that truly meets people at their point of need,” Ogbe said.

The Mandate Secretary for the Women Affairs Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, linked the Rotary theme with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Unite for Good is a global message with a local impact. It speaks to what the Renewed Hope Agenda is about, ensuring no community is left behind in the pursuit of health and social justice,” she said.

She urged women leaders to rise boldly and embrace their full potential.

“Be the best woman you can be not just in name, but in action, influence, and heart. Leadership is about showing up fully with your talent, your network, and your commitment to service,” she added