Fay Campbell Nigeria visit turns emotional as the Jamaican-Canadian Rotarian reconnects with her roots, explores culture, and celebrates Rotary fellowship
Fay Campbell Nigeria visit became a heartfelt journey of self-discovery as the Jamaican-Canadian retired teacher and Past District Governor of Rotary District 7400, Zone 28, finally set foot in Africa to trace her ancestral roots.
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At 80 years old, Fay called the trip a “spiritual homecoming,” expressing overwhelming joy in being on Nigerian soil for the first time. “I know I’m a Nigerian,” she beamed, “and that’s what matters most. The tribe is secondary.”
Currently serving as her Rotary District’s Interact Chair, Fay champions youth development through global connections.
Her goal now is to foster penpal relationships between Nigerian and Canadian Interactors to build bridges and develop global citizenship among young minds.
Accompanied by her longtime friend, Dr. Shirley Braithwaite, an 82-year-old Barbadian-Canadian forensic psychiatrist, the duo immersed themselves in Nigerian culture dressed in traditional attire, sampling dishes like jollof rice and amala, and visiting museums and Rotary project sites.
During her stay in Abuja and Lagos, Fay was warmly welcomed by Rotarians, receiving Nigerian names like Omotunde, Ngozi, Amina, and Ebehireme to affirm her cultural connection.
Her journey began after meeting Past Assistant Governor Oye Oyewo during the Rotary International Convention in Singapore, who later helped facilitate her visit.
The highlight of the trip included attending the investitures of District Governors Joy Okoro (9127) and Kunmi Adio-Moses (9111),
Rotary club receptions, and visits to heritage centres such as the J.K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and the Rotary Club of Omole-Golden’s neonatal project.
Fay also made time to explore local markets, meet host families, and reflect on her destiny. “I’ve always felt the pull to Africa,” she said, determined to visit the National Museum before returning to Canada.
Back in Canada, Fay is known for her humanitarian work in Jamaica, the U.S., and Colombia, and she shares her February 6 birthday with reggae legend Bob Marley.
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Her visit left an indelible mark, not only on her but also on the many Nigerians she met proving once again that Rotary connects the world, and ancestral journeys can heal history with purpose and pride.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
