The Women in Rotary (WIR), with the support of the Men in Rotary chaired by IPP Lara Akinsanya , successfully carried out the visitation and gift presentation program.
The United Presidents of the Zone 1 clubs and the coordinators who contributed additional baby items greatly enhanced the impact and significance of the project.
Special appreciation goes to Rtn PP V. Soyoola (representative of WIR), Rtn Sylvia Abdallah, for her invaluable support and presence, as well as to the D9111 Zonal 1 Coordinator, PAG Muftau Adelotan, whose leadership remains exceptional.
History of Women in Rotary
Women are active and growing participants in Rotary, serving their communities and holding leadership positions worldwide.
A landmark moment occurred in 1989 when the Council on Legislation voted to admit women into Rotary clubs globally.
As Frank J. Devlyn, later RI President (2000–01), stated: “The world of 1989 is very different from the world of 1905. Rotary must adapt to a changing world.”
This decision followed decades of advocacy by Rotarians worldwide and several closely contested votes at earlier Councils.
The outcome was remarkable—by June 1990, female membership exceeded 20,000.
By July 2010, women numbered 195,000 (16% of members), and by July 2020, this grew to over 277,000 (23%).
Rotary remains committed to growing and diversifying its membership to better reflect the communities it serves.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion strengthen Rotary’s ability to expand its reach and impact.
Rotary values individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, ethnicity, race, color, ability, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The organization is widely recognized for its humanitarian efforts and commitment to “Service Above Self.”
In line with these values, Women in Rotary decided to gift the first baby of the year 2026 at Lagoon Hospital Hygeia, Balogun Bus Stop, Ikeja.
Other hospitals—including Oregun Health Centre, LASUTH, and several facilities within the Ikeja axis—were visited, but no New Year births were recorded at the time.
Upon confirmation of the New Year baby at Lagoon Hospital, communication was established with the hospital management, and the presentation commenced.
Mrs. Enwere Amarachi, a Matron, guided the team to the ward where the baby was admitted.
The baby’s mother, Mrs. Victor, received the gifts on behalf of her child and expressed her appreciation.
In addition, two other babies born late in 2025 also benefited from the gesture—children from the families of Mr. Olusola and Prince Abiodun Oyedepo of the Igbajo Kingdom.
Rotarians present at the event included Rtn Victoria Soyoola (Mama Yaba), Women in Rotary Zone 1 Coordinator; Rtn AG Sylvia Abdallah, PCOS (Chief of Staff to DG yr 2024/25; Rtn Lanre Lawal (United President and Class Captain of the 2025–2026 Presidents); Past President Funmilayo Balogun, Rotary Club of Oregun; Past President Omoshalewa Animashaun, Rotary Club of Oregun; Rtn Ademowore Adetola (United President), Rotary Club of Oregun; Rtn Abigail Akano (United President), Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA; Rtn Marie, Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA; and Rtn Bola (Obaby), Rotary Club of Ikeja Central.
