The Rotary Youth Leadership Academy concluded its 2026 programme in Lagos with a closing ceremony marked by leadership recognition, awards, fellowship and encouragement for 466 young participants.
The 2026 edition of the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy, RYLA, organised within Rotary International District 9112, came to a close on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with participants, Rotarians and guests gathering at the Sea School in Apapa, Lagos.
The closing ceremony, held under the theme “Today’s Innovators, Tomorrow’s Leaders,” brought the leadership training programme to a formal end after an intensive experience aimed at developing young people into responsible and innovative leaders.
The programme began with participants and guests assembling at the Sea School Jetty, Apapa, where they were transported across the water to the event venue at Sea School. The movement to the venue formed part of the day’s activities as Rotarians and guests were received ahead of the closing proceedings.
The District Governor of Rotary International District 9112, Rtn. Layi Abidoye, was among the key personalities at the ceremony. According to notes from the event, the District Governor was welcomed with a parade and salute before proceeding to inspect areas of the RYLA camp.
The inspection provided an opportunity for the District Governor to observe the camp facilities and activities before the ceremony continued with other scheduled engagements.
The closing programme also featured a luncheon with the District Governor and the recognition of notable members who had contributed to the success of the programme.
Another major highlight was the presentation of awards to outstanding watch houses within the camp, recognising participants and groups whose performances and contributions stood out during the RYLA experience.
The RYLA committee was also appreciated for its efforts in organising and delivering the programme, while awards were presented to impactful Rotarians who had contributed to the development and success of the academy.
In addition to the awards and recognition, the closing ceremony featured monetary support and words of encouragement to the Rylarians, reinforcing the leadership-focused objective of the programme and encouraging participants to apply the lessons and experiences gained during the academy.
The programme subsequently moved towards its formal conclusion, with Rotarians, guests and the 466 participating Rylarians brought together for the final dismissal and closing of the 2026 edition.
The presence of the District Governor and other Rotarians, alongside the recognition of outstanding participants and contributors, gave the closing ceremony a celebratory but reflective atmosphere as participants prepared to return to their various locations.
The 2026 RYLA programme ultimately ended with a message centred on leadership development, service, innovation and the responsibility of young people to translate their experiences into positive impact in their communities.
With the theme, “Today’s Innovators, Tomorrow’s Leaders,” the academy’s closing ceremony served not only as the end of the programme but also as a reminder of the leadership potential expected from the 466 young people who participated in the 2026 edition.
