District Governor-Elect of Rotary International District 9127, Sikiru Owonikoko, has called on Rotary leaders to improve the organisation’s public image, engage members and use resources from The Rotary Foundation to achieve community results.
Speaking at the District Learning Seminars in Abuja, Mr Owonikoko said Rotary’s reputation should focus on people and their service rather than branding.
“You are the face of Rotary. Not the wheel. Not the banner. Not the slogan. You,” he said.
“People do not connect with institutions. They connect with people of action.”
He encouraged clubs to document and share community projects, including education, health, youth mentoring and women’s initiatives.
“Rotary’s public image must be built around real faces, real names, and real stories of impact,” he added.
Owonikoko described The Rotary Foundation as “the engine that powers the Rotary wheel of impact,” noting it recently raised over $417 million to fund global projects.
“When we give to The Rotary Foundation, we are not giving money away. We are investing in hope, dignity, and humanity,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of membership growth, retention and engagement.
“People stay where they are seen. People grow where they are valued,” he said, adding that each member could expand the organisation by inviting at least one new member.
On communication and collaboration, he said, “When communication flows, trust grows. When trust grows, collaboration strengthens. And when collaboration strengthens, impact multiplies.”
Owonikoko urged leaders to listen to members, share information openly and maintain unity across clubs and districts, while embracing leadership, innovation and service to drive results in the 2026–2027 Rotary year.
