Rotary Club Of Lagos Honours Peace Advocates

Mary Nnah

The Rotary Club of Lagos recently recognized individuals who have contributed significantly to peace and conflict resolution in the Lagos community.

The awards were given as part of the global observation of World Peace and Understanding Day, and they reflect the Club’s enduring commitment to promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution at both local and global levels.

According to the Club’s Director of Public Image, Ifeoma Williams, the awards embedded in the principles of peace and understanding, underscored the club’s enduring dedication to promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution at both local and global levels.

The awardees included the Baale of Ishaga Adesola, Ojokoro, Ifako Ijaiye LGA, who was recognized for his exemplary leadership in conflict resolution and dedication to building human capital that has earned him recognition as a beacon of peace in the community. Honourable Hakeem Ibrahim Bakare Olawale was awarded for his selfless service to the Ifako Gbagada community, coordinating youth initiatives, and providing essential support services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mrs. Oluwadamilola Mercy Onabanjo, who is a Higher Law Enforcement Traffic Superintendent at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), was awarded for her dedication to public service. Her expertise in traffic management and unwavering commitment to promoting road safety have earned her widespread admiration.
Fatima Yerima Askira, the Founder of Borno Women Development Initiative, was recognized for her exceptional peace-building efforts in Northeastern Nigeria. Although she was unable to attend the ceremony, Mohammed Isa Bukar was present to accept the award on her behalf.

The event was led by Rotarian Toki Mabogunje, the chairperson of the event, who presented the annual Rotary Club of Lagos Peace prizes and awards to the recipients.

The ceremony highlighted the transformative impact of peace advocacy and celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting peace and resolving conflicts.

President of the Rotary Club of Lagos, Major General Abiodun Role (Rtd), acknowledged the importance of peacebuilding in today’s world and emphasised the Club’s enduring commitment to peace and understanding.

He urged members to continue their efforts in making a positive difference in the community.

“Rotary Club of Lagos sets aside a day in February, which is the month for World Peace and Understanding Day, and we use it as a venue to recognise individuals, and groups within the community that have ensured that conflicts within the community.

“We also look at those who have given their time and their work to the sustenance of the less privileged. And that is exactly what you are witnessing here today”, he noted.

In his remarks, Baale Adesola JP expressed appreciation to the Rotary Club of Lagos for the honour and thanked his community for their support. He also praised the Club for its dedication to helping those in need, adding that he sees the Rotary Club as a club that caters to human beings and does not want anyone to suffer.

“This is an exciting experience for me, and I give God the glory for it. I appreciate the Rotary Club of Lagos for honouring me with this award. I am using this opportunity also to greet the people in my community for their support.

“I appreciate all of them. I appreciate the chiefs, the entire community as a whole and the Rotary Club of Lagos. I see the Rotary Club as a club that caters to human beings, and they don’t want anybody to suffer. I love them”, Adesola said.