Layi Abidoye was triumphantly installed as the 3rd Governor of Rotary International District 9112 on 4 July 2026 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island. The inspiring event, attended by Rotary International President Olayinka Babalola, highlighted service, continuity and ambitious humanitarian projects.
Rotarian Olayioye “Layi” Abidoye was officially installed as the 3rd Governor of Rotary International District 9112 on Saturday 4 July 2026 at the Harbour Point Event Centre on Victoria Island, Lagos.
The memorable ceremony, attended by over one thousand guests, marked a significant milestone just days after the new Rotary year began on 1 July.
Professor Toyin Ashiru chaired the occasion, while Yemi Shodimu, supported by Assistant Governor Adewale Abdul and Charter President Winifred Ebiye, masterfully compered the proceedings.
Immediate Past District Governor Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin called the event to order, ensuring all Rotary protocols were observed with customary dignity.
Also watch: Rtn. Olayioye Abidoye’s Maiden State of the District Address
Installation committee chairman Assistant Governor Adekemi Folorunsho delivered a warm welcome address.
She described the gathering as more than a simple change of leadership, stating, “Rotary is not about temporary gestures, but about projects, fellowships, relationships and leadership that outlive our tenure.”
His Majesty the Olona of Adaland, Oba Dr. Oyetunde Ojo, Ogunbodun I, offered royal blessings as Royal Father of the Day.
Among the distinguished guests was Rotary International President Olayinka Hakeem Babalola, whose birthday coincided with the occasion. He joined the newly installed District Governor in cutting a celebratory birthday cake, adding a delightful personal touch to the evening.
Also present were District Governor Elect Rtn. Uyi Sowebi and District Governor Nominee Ehi Braimah, alongside other top Rotarians from sister District 9111, underscoring the strong spirit of fellowship across the region.
Dignitaries in attendance also included Distinguished Royal Personality Etubom Dr. Sir Anthony Ani, Special Guest of Honour Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, doyen of Nigerian District Governors Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Guest Speaker Barrister Babatunde Ogala, and numerous past district governors.
In his acceptance speech, the new District Governor Layi Abidoye emphasised immediate action and gratitude through service.
He outlined an ambitious agenda featuring transformative projects such as a N350 million eye hospital, the renovation of Sea School in Apapa, the donation of five ultrasound machines to a Mother and Child Hospital, and enhanced fire response capabilities supported by N142.825 million.
Also read: Rotarian Layi Abidoye unveils powerful Rotary District 9112 roadmap
The evening was further enlivened by a spirited cultural performance and live music from Adewale Ayuba, whose evergreen tunes had guests on their feet dancing joyfully in the fully packed hall.
This installation builds upon the strong foundation laid by previous leaders in District 9112, reinforcing Rotary’s enduring commitment to humanitarian service, ethical leadership, and community impact across Nigeria.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
