- Afere acknowledging the pressures of balancing personal commitments, strengthening communication
- Afere described it as a foundational period “not defined by age but by impact.”
- Afere said the end of his tenure was not the end of his service
The outgoing President of the Rotary Club of Lagos Golden Hearts, Ikeja, Rtn. Gbenga Afere, has delivered an emotional valedictory speech, marking the close of his tenure and celebrating what he described as a “historic year of courage, commitment, and true service above self.”
Eko Hot Blog reports that Afere, who led the young club through its formative Rotary year, addressed members, guests, and dignitaries during the club’s Investiture and Fundraising Ceremony held in Ikeja.
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His speech drew both laughter and warm applause as he repeatedly called the hall to order, urging members to “give him their ears” one last time.
Afere recalled that the journey began on March 8, 2024, when a small but determined gathering at Lagos Airport Hotel ignited the vision that would become the Rotary Club of Lagos Golden Hearts.
Barely a month later, on April 10, 2024, Rotary International granted the club its charter, formally admitting them into the global Rotary family.
Reflecting on the 2024/2025 Rotary year, Afere described it as a foundational period “not defined by age but by impact.” He highlighted landmark initiatives such as medical outreach programmes, maternal and child-care interventions, and educational support for underserved schools.
He noted that the club also deepened its understanding of Rotary principles, strengthened inclusion, and empowered new members to lead confidently.
According to him, building the club’s administrative and governance framework from scratch was a demanding but fulfilling task that set the foundation for future generations.
“Together, we transformed a simple dream into a thriving Rotary club whose light will shine for years,” he said.
Addressing challenges, Afere acknowledged the pressures of balancing personal commitments, strengthening communication, and navigating internal disagreements.
However, he praised the club for choosing unity over ego and progress over distraction.
He thanked members for believing in a dream driven not by “price” but by “passion and purpose,” adding that their sacrifices built the club “phrase by phrase.”
As he handed over leadership, Afere said the end of his tenure was not the end of his service. “I remain a devoted Rotarian, ready to serve wherever I am needed,” he affirmed.
He wished the incoming president a successful tenure and urged members to keep the club’s vision alive.
