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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Rotary Club of Akowonjo, Lagos, has installed Dr Festus Ibiam Uko as its 31st president, tasking him with driving the club’s humanitarian and community development work for the 2026/2027 Rotary year.
The installation ceremony, which also featured the launch of Uko’s new book, *WORK DEY OH! Sleep Intentionally and Wake Up with Purpose – Creating Lasting Impact*, drew Rotary leaders, traditional rulers, government officials and professionals.
Speaking at the event, Uko reaffirmed the club’s commitment to Rotary’s core value of service above self and outlined a focus on projects that deliver measurable results in Akowonjo and surrounding communities.
“Our focus this year is on sustainable impact. We will prioritise vocational training, health interventions, youth empowerment, and support for small businesses to help families cope with the rising cost of living,” he said.
He announced plans for a Youth Enterprise and Digital Skills Development Innovation Centre to equip young people with ICT and employability skills. The club will also pursue sustainable community projects, including solar-powered lighting in strategic public spaces where feasible, tree planting and sanitation campaigns.
“Our goal is simple: to create lasting impact by improving lives, strengthening families, and building a more resilient Gowon Estate community,” Uko said. He noted that with inflation and high living costs squeezing households, skills empowerment remains the most sustainable way to tackle poverty at the grassroots.
Describing young people as partners in building today’s society rather than merely “leaders of tomorrow,” he said the club would work with schools, community leaders, security agencies and faith-based organisations on awareness campaigns against drug abuse, cultism and violence.
“We believe that when young people are empowered with opportunities, they become agents of peace rather than victims of social challenges,” he added.
New board members were inducted to serve alongside President Uko. A fundraising session during the ceremony attracted support from guests, philanthropists, corporate organisations and members of the public, with proceeds earmarked for the club’s humanitarian projects across Gowon Estate and neighbouring communities.
On the newly launched book, Uko described it as a practical guide to purposeful living, intentional leadership and legacy building. He urged individuals, especially young people, to embrace discipline, resilience and service as pathways to personal and societal transformation.
Chairman of the Rotary Club of Gowon Estate Lagos, Toyin Musa-Agboneni, commended the new president, saying his dedication and commitment to humanity would continue to inspire members. “We are confident that under your leadership, our Club will reach ever greater heights in service, fellowship and impact,” she said.
Ajumjum Theresa encouraged members to rally behind the incoming president to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
Providing brief background, Sam Obasi noted that Rotary was founded in 1905 and has earned global recognition for its humanitarian work.
