- Rotary Gbagada member Esther Ogundele receives Pillar of Service honour
- She is recognised for her dedication to humanitarian efforts
- The award was presented during Layi Abidoye’s District 9112 installation
The Rotary Club of Gbagada celebrated a historic moment as one of its distinguished members, Rotarian Ambassador Chief Mrs. Esther Ogundele, received the prestigious Pillar of Service honour during the installation ceremony of Rotarian Layi Abidoye as the District Governor of Rotary International District 9112.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the colourful event, held at Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together Rotary leaders, royal fathers, dignitaries, family members and friends to celebrate leadership, service and commitment to humanitarian causes.
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Rotarian Layi Abidoye officially assumed office as the District Governor of District 9112 in a ceremony marked by the symbolic presentation of the Rotary collar by the immediate past District Governor, signalling the beginning of a new administration focused on strengthening Rotary’s impact across communities.
The installation committee chairman, Rotarian Ololade Folorunsho, described the occasion as a celebration of Rotary’s values of fellowship, leadership and selfless service, while urging members to continue creating positive change through humanitarian initiatives.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Ambassador Esther Ogundele, a prominent member of the Rotary Club of Gbagada, who was honoured with the Pillar of Service award for her dedication, generosity and contributions to Rotary’s humanitarian mission.
Ogundele, who was celebrated as the Opomulero of Rotary International District 9112, received tributes from colleagues, associates and well-wishers who praised her commitment to touching lives and supporting community development efforts.
Speaking at the event, friends and Rotary leaders described Ogundele’s recognition as a reflection of her years of dedication to service, noting her influence in promoting Rotary’s ideals and inspiring others to contribute to society.

The newly installed District Governor, Layi Abidoye, in his acceptance speech, expressed appreciation to Rotary members, his family and supporters, promising to uphold the organisation’s principle of “Service Above Self” throughout his tenure.
The ceremony also featured a special celebration of Rotary International President Rotarian Olayinka Akeem Babalola’s 60th birthday, with guests joining in a birthday tribute and cake-cutting ceremony.
The event attracted notable personalities, including royal fathers, past district governors and Rotary leaders, who congratulated both Abidoye and Ogundele for their achievements and contributions to the organisation.
The installation ended with music, celebrations and warm messages, marking a new chapter for Rotary District 9112 while honouring two individuals whose dedication continues to promote service, leadership and humanity.
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