By Joy Omagha Idam
The newly admitted Ikeja Model Virtual Lions Club has received a rousing welcome into Lions Clubs International District 404-B5 during the District’s inaugural Strategic Retreat, Leadership Training and First Cabinet Meeting held from July 16 to 18, 2026, in Ekiti State.
The three-day event, which marked the beginning of a new Lions service year in the newly bifurcated District, brought together Lions leaders and members from across the District to chart a strategic course for the 2026/2027 service year.
The highlight of the opening ceremony was the colourful reception accorded to the Ikeja Model Virtual Lions Club by District Governor, Lion Phina Nwando Origho, PMJF, members of the District Cabinet and Lions from various clubs, who warmly embraced the club into the Lions family.
Adding glamour to the reception, Ekiti Pride Lions Club, Ekiti One-Mind Lions Club and Ekiti Legacy Lions Club treated the visiting club to a vibrant dance orchestra and presented bouquets of flowers as symbols of friendship, unity and solidarity.
Responding on behalf of the club, Club President, Lion Grace Quick, PMJF, expressed profound appreciation for the warm reception, describing it as a demonstration of genuine fellowship and the spirit of Lionism. She was joined by Lion (Dcns) Evelyn Olore Imokhe and other club leaders, who noted that the warm embrace reaffirmed their belief that District 404-B5 provides an atmosphere where humanitarian service thrives without division or rancour.
Joining the District with an impressive membership strength of 78 members and still growing, the Ikeja Model Virtual Lions Club is expected to contribute significantly to the District’s humanitarian and community development initiatives.
Welcoming the club, District Governor Lion Phina Nwando Origho, PMJF, described its admission as a major milestone in the District’s history.
“We are proud to welcome this great team to our District, and this number has become an integral part of our growth and history as a District,” she said.
Beyond the ceremonial reception, the retreat featured intensive leadership training sessions designed to equip club officers with the skills and knowledge required for effective service delivery throughout the 2026/2027 Lions service year.
Demonstrating their commitment to community service, members of the Ikeja Model Virtual Lions Club also carried out an Environmental Awareness Service Activity at Oke-Ikire Market in Ekiti State.
During the outreach, the Lions educated traders and residents on the importance of environmental sanitation, encouraging proper waste disposal practices to promote cleaner surroundings and healthier communities.
The successful outing underscored the club’s readiness to translate the ideals of Lionism into practical action, while reinforcing the core mission of “We Serve” through impactful humanitarian interventions.