By Ayo Arowojolu
An agricultural economist and farm management expert, Rotarian Adedayo Ayegbokiki is now in saddle as President, Rotary Club of Abeokuta Prestige.
His investiture took place at a well attended ceremony held at the Nigeria Society of Engineers House, opposite Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Complex, Abeokuta last weekend.
In essence, Ayegbokiki who is a frontline officer at the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), is the 5th President of the Club for the Rotary year 2025 to 2026.
Performing the investiture was the District Governor of Rotary International 9111, Prince Henry Akinyele who was represented by Dr. Hassan, the District Action Champion.
In his acceptance speech, Rotarian Ayegbokiki detailed his programme of action for the Rotary Year, pledging to further the Rotary culture of service to humanity and to rewrite a new chapter of growth, service and renewed commitment.
Excerpts from Rotarian Ayegbokiki’s speech read: “This position is not just a title, but a call to service, responsibility, and leadership. Rotary is more than an organization; it is a movement of people bound by the common goal of ‘Service Above Self’.
“It is a platform that challenges us to see beyond ourselves and extend kindness, compassion, and empowerment to our communities and the world at large.The accomplishments of our past presidents and leaders have established a high standard for greatness, which I acknowledge as I take on this mantle.
“I applaud their vision, commitment, and ceaseless attempts to elevate our Club’s stature, cohesion, and significance. As I stand on their shoulders, I promise to continue their legacy while establishing new avenues for expansion, influence, and sustainability.
“’Unite for Good’ is the Rotary International theme that serves as our compass this year. This theme serves as a reminder that when we work together, we can change people’s lives, promote harmony, and bring hope to those who need it most.
“My vision as your United President is anchored on three pillars: Strengthening Our Club by fostering unity, inclusiveness, and professional development among members, expanding Our Impact through innovative humanitarian projects in health, education, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability that address the real needs of our community, building Lasting Partnerships with individuals, organizations, and institutions, so that our projects and initiatives outlive our tenure and remain impactful for generations.
“I firmly believe that no leader succeeds alone. Therefore, I call upon every Rotarian here to stand with me, shoulder to shoulder, as we work to realise this goal. Let us bring our diverse talents, resources, and networks together to ensure that the Rotary Club of Abeokuta Prestige continues to shine as a beacon of hope, service, and excellence”.
Speaking earlier, Prof. Elizabeth Olufunmilayo Oluwalana who chaired the ceremony said the investiture of Ayegbokiki underscored the continuity of purpose and collective commitment to a noble calling which is to contribute meaningfully to community development, empowering the less privileged and promoting fellowship among members.
Prof Oluwalana charged the new leadership to reflect on the pressing needs of the communities within its jurisdiction especially in the challenges of health, education, environmental sustainability and youth empowerment.
Other speakers also delivered goodwill messages at the occasion, among them Rotarian Adewole Oduwole who was Chairman investiture Planning Committee and also the Royal Father of the day, HRM Oba Olusegun Ayinde Feyijimi Iroko, the Oniroko of Iroko Land, Ogun State.
The Guest Speaker, Auditor-General of Ogun State, Mr. Balogun Akorede Lateef, FCA, spoke on the topic:
“Impact of Good Auditing on Small Businesses and Economic Growth in Nigeria”.
