The 117th Rotary International Convention, held from 13 to 17 June in Taipei, Taiwan, drew over 35,000 Rotarians and Rotaractors from more than 200 countries. The event, themed "Build connection in Taipei," marked the second time the city hosted the convention, the first being in 1994. Originally scheduled for 2021, it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Historic Presentation of Nigerian Leader
One of the most memorable highlights was the official presentation of Olayinka Hakeem Babalola as the incoming Rotary International President for 2026-2027. This occurred during the General Closing Session on the last day, between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. local time. Outgoing President Francesco Arezzo introduced Babalola, who then presented his family: his wife Percy, his 83-year-old mother, two daughters, son, and sister-in-law.
Babalola's emergence is historic as he becomes only the second African to lead Rotary International, following Nigerian Rotarian Jonathan Majiyagbe, who served in 2003-2004. This reaffirms Nigeria's contribution to global service leadership. Another Nigerian, Pearl Ijeoma Okoro, serves as a Trustee of The Rotary Foundation for 2024-2028.
Convention Highlights and Venues
The convention took place at two main venues: Farglory Dome/Taipei Dome for Opening, Closing, and General Sessions, and Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre (TaiNEX 1 and 2) for Breakout Sessions and the House of Friendship. Delegates engaged in plenary sessions, leadership forums, exhibitions, and cultural showcases. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te met Rotary leaders and expressed support for the peace vision.
In his opening speech on 14 June, outgoing President Francesco Arezzo described Rotary conventions as "powerful moments of unity…to spark new ideas for a healthier, more peaceful future." The convention emphasized Rotary's mission of "Service Above Self" through projects in peacebuilding, education, disease prevention, environmental sustainability, maternal and child health, economic empowerment, and community development.
Babalola's Vision: "Create Lasting Impact"
As incoming president, Babalola has articulated a vision focused on sustainable change with the message "Create Lasting Impact." He encourages Rotary members to move beyond short-term interventions and embrace initiatives that create enduring benefits. He says "change" is good, but "impact that endures" is better. The theme aligns with addressing root causes of poverty, illiteracy, health disparities, and environmental concerns.
Babalola, a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi in Rivers State, Nigeria, has served as District Governor, Rotary International Vice President, and on the Board of Directors. He has been instrumental in polio eradication and community development. His presentation in Taipei symbolizes the increasing global relevance of African leadership in humanitarian action.
Nigeria's Soft Power and Rotary's Relevance
Babalola's achievement underscores Nigeria's soft power diplomacy, offering a positive narrative of Nigerian excellence and global citizenship. For younger Nigerians, especially those in service organizations, his journey from Rotaractor to global leader provides inspiration. The convention also highlighted Rotary's enduring relevance in fostering dialogue, friendship, and cooperation amid technological advances and geopolitical tensions.
As delegates departed Taipei, they carried fresh ideas and renewed motivation. Babalola officially assumes office on July 1, 2026, leading one of the world's most respected humanitarian organizations. For Nigeria, it marks a proud chapter; for Africa, another milestone in growing influence; for Rotary, continuity and commitment to creating lasting impact.
Ehi Braimah, District Governor Nominee Designate of District 9112, attended the convention. He is a PR specialist, marketing strategist, and publisher/editor-in-chief of Naija Times and Lagos Post.
