- Layi Abidoye has assumed office as Rotary District 9112 Governor for the 2026 to 2027 Rotary year
- He promised disciplined and impactful leadership
- The ceremony attracted Rotary leaders and dignitaries
The newly installed District Governor of Rotary District 9112, Layi Abidoye, has pledged to provide disciplined, people centred and service driven leadership during the 2026 to 2027 Rotary year, expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by members of the organisation.
Speaking during his inauguration as the third District Governor of Rotary District 9112, Eko Hot Blog gathered that Abidoye described his emergence as a humbling moment and thanked Rotary members, family, friends and dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
He noted that the installation coincided with a historic moment for Rotary, as the gathering was attended by Africa’s second Rotary International President, who is also Nigeria’s second and the first indigene of Ibadan to occupy the global office.
“In this hall today, we have the second African to be Rotary International President, the second Nigerian to hold that office and the first indigene of Ibadan to achieve the feat,” he said while welcoming the international leader.
Abidoye officially declared the meeting open, describing the occasion as a landmark event in the history of the district.
Reflecting on his personal journey, the new district governor recounted how he admired one of Rotary’s senior leaders from his secondary school days, adopting him as a mentor long before they met.
According to him, the mentor’s decision to study law inspired him to pursue the same profession, while watching him serve as a Rotary district governor years ago strengthened his own desire to lead the organisation.
“I adopted him as my practical mentor without ever meeting him. Today, I stand here as District Governor, and I consider myself fortunate,” he said.
Abidoye also acknowledged the support of the Lagos State Government, commending government officials for honouring the event and appreciating the goodwill extended to Rotary.
He recognised fellow pharmacists, professional colleagues, longtime friends, former classmates and members of his immediate family for standing by him throughout his journey.
The district governor admitted feeling overwhelmed by the large turnout at the installation ceremony, saying the support demonstrated by members and guests would inspire him throughout his tenure.
“My journey begins with honesty. I am overwhelmed by your presence here today, and I am grateful to everyone who has supported me,” he said.
Abidoye said his leadership would be guided by discipline, recalling lessons shared by respected mentors within Rotary, which he promised to uphold while leading the district.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to God, his family and Rotary members for making his emergence possible, pledging to dedicate himself to advancing Rotary’s humanitarian mission and strengthening service to communities across District 9112.
