Nexters officers connect as newly appointed members begin Rotary work, with PE Victor Ojelabi hosting a leadership and networking session in Lagos.
On Friday, September 11, 2026, PE Victor Ojelabi, Watch Sponsor, brought nine Nexters Watch members, including six executives, together at Iretura Media Hub, 34 Meiran Road, Lagos, for an introductory networking and leadership session as the newly appointed officers commenced work.
The three-hour meeting, held from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, provided the new officers with an opportunity to meet, understand one another, share experiences and begin building the relationships needed to work effectively as a team.
With Rtn. Ambassador Ariyike, Assistant Governor Rtn. Olori Adebukola, Mrs. Bukola, a fashion designer, and a Rotarian parent who combines nursing with fashion designing also in attendance, the gathering blended introductions, mentorship, creativity and informal interaction.
Welcoming the members, Ojelabi encouraged the Nexters to approach their new responsibilities with a spirit of service, responsibility and friendship. He urged them to look beyond titles and deliberately build relationships with people around them.
“Meet people, know their story, and think of how to impact their lives,” Ojelabi told the members.
The emphasis on connection was reflected throughout the meeting as members introduced themselves and shared aspects of their interests and experiences. The informal atmosphere allowed the newly constituted team to interact beyond their individual roles and begin establishing the familiarity required for collaborative work.
Rtn. Ambassador Ariyike used the opportunity to speak about leadership and personal growth, encouraging the Nexters to listen, ask questions and become comfortable with stepping outside their comfort zones.
She also reminded the members that leadership is not simply about giving instructions or occupying a position. For the new officers, the message placed greater emphasis on relationships and leading with love.
Assistant Governor Rtn. Olori Adebukola similarly encouraged the Nexters to make meaningful use of the opportunity before them, particularly as their RYLA experience had transitioned into a new phase of responsibility.
“RYLA has come to an end, everyone has gone home, but here we are, ready to learn, grow, lead, serve and shape opportunities that will make a lasting impact in our lives,” she said.
The meeting also introduced the officers to practical perspectives beyond Rotary administration. Mrs. Bukola spoke about turning ideas into reality through consistency, practice, patience and learning from mistakes.
A Rotarian parent who works as both a nurse and fashion designer shared her experience of balancing two professional paths, encouraging the Nexters to develop practical skills while learning to manage their time effectively.
One of the most personal moments came from Shobiye Grace, a Nexters member who shared how childhood curiosity while watching her mother sew eventually led her to learn sewing and hairdressing.
Her experience added a practical dimension to the conversation about discovering and developing personal abilities.
Beyond the formal discussions, the gathering created space for fellowship. Members took group and individual photographs with Ojelabi, celebrated September birthday celebrants and cut a birthday cake before spending time together over music, conversation and games.
The relaxed close to the meeting was significant for a team at the beginning of a new working cycle. While the officers have different responsibilities, the gathering provided a foundation for familiarity, communication and mutual support.
The Nexters meeting therefore marked more than a routine gathering. It was an early opportunity for the new officers to connect as colleagues, understand the people with whom they will be serving and begin shaping the working relationships that will support their tenure.
The meeting ended at 1:00 pm, with the Nexters leaving not only with leadership lessons but also with a stronger sense of the team they are now part of.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
