Donald Duke was inducted into the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central, where he shared powerful insights on selflessness and service during the event
[dropcap]O[/dropcap]n Sunday, March 23rd, 2025, former Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke, was formally inducted into the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central, becoming one of the newest members of the prestigious organisation.
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The induction ceremony, which marked the fourth anniversary of the club, was attended by key Rotary leaders, including Past District Governor of Rotary International District 9110, Rotarian (Otunba) Bola Onabadejo.
Rotarian Duke, the first governor of the South-South state, was invited by Rotarian Muyiwa Akintunde, President of the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central, to join the club.
Duke delivered an inspiring speech focused on Rotary’s Four-Way Test, urging individuals and organisations to adopt the principles of selflessness and service as guiding ideals in their everyday lives.
“Imagine a society where we all embraced these ideals of selflessness,” said Duke. “The real wretchedness is not the people around you, but you yourself.”
The former governor highlighted the importance of giving back in all forms – not only through financial resources but also through the sacrifice of time and talent. He emphasised that the third phase of life, which comes after the age of 75, should be dedicated to giving, in line with Rotary’s mantra of “Service Above Self.”
Duke gladly accepted his membership in the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central as an active member, rather than as an honorary member, making him the first of five new members inducted during the anniversary ceremony.
In a warm tribute, PDG Onabadejo described Duke as a transformative leader, recognising his impactful projects during his tenure as governor and his adherence to the principles of putting others first. “Nigeria needs more citizens like Duke, who interact freely and humbly with everyone,” he remarked.
The ceremony, which also included the induction of new members such as Rotarian Temitope Faborode, Rotarian Niyi Amosu, Rotarian Ayodele Omirin, and Rotarian Precious Muotoh, was conducted by the District Governor Nominee Designate of District 9111, Rotarian Sam Ayetutu, assisted by other top Rotarians, including the Assistant Governor for the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central, Rotarian Ibraheem Adebayo.
A major highlight of the night was the inauguration of the League of Past Presidents, which will serve as an advisory body to the incumbent president.
Rotarian (Dr.) Adebukunola Soile-Balogun represented the three Past Presidents of the club during the event. Under Soile-Balogun’s leadership as President during the 2022-2023 term, the club won the third-best award in District 9110, which comprises over 140 clubs.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Public Relations expert AG Ehi Braimah, former Ogun State Commissioner for Environment Hon. Bolaji Oyeleye, brand analyst Mr. Ikem Okuhu, financial expert Mr. Segun Adebayo, and communications consultant Mr. Jerry Sawyer.
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As the Rotary Club of Ikeja-Alausa Central celebrates its continued growth and service to the community, the induction of Donald Duke and the League of Past Presidents signifies a renewed commitment to the ideals of service and leadership.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
