By Anne Uche Obi
Rotary is an international service organization with over 1.2 million members in 200+ countries. It brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and advance goodwill and peace. Rotary’s core values include service, fellowship, diversity, integrity, and leadership.
Rotary a non profit organization recently held its annual International Convention in Calgary, Canada nearly three decades after initially hosting the event in 1996. This year hosting was from June 21st to June 25th, 2025.
The convention attracted a significant number of Rotarians and guest. Over 20,000 attendees from more than 120 countries around the globe.
Rotarians from different districts in Nigeria were present including districts 9127(D9127)
**The Pioneer District Governor of D9127 2024-2025 , Mike Ukachi Nwanoshiri and his wife were present including District Governor Elect, Princess Dame Joy Okoro who takes over the mantle of leadership 1st July 2025 – 30th June 2026. Past District Governors: Joshua Hassan, Ayo Oyedokun, Elvis Chibiko Chukwu.
Also in attendance are members of the Rotary Club of Abuja CBD, Rotarian Salome Garba and Anne Uche Obi, Members of Rotary Club of Jabi Lakeside, Rabi Maidunama, Amobi Ogum, Members of Rotary Club of Abuja, Rotary Club of Maitama, and a host of other Rotary Clubs from across Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, Abia , Jos, Kaduna etc
This gathering is believed to be the largest in-person Rotary convention since the COVID-19 pandemic, although it marked a slight decrease in attendance compared to the Calgary convention held in 1996 which welcomed 24,963 Rotarians.
The convention experience is truly inspiring knowing that both the young and especially the aged in the society are willing to keep serving humanity.
This global celebration of service, fellowship, and impact is one everyone looks forwad to. It is usually held annually in different cities/ countries. The convention provides a platform for members and guests to connect, share knowledge, and gain insights from experts who share their experiences with knowledge on communal issues and the positive impact of Rotary around the world.
Members are always encouraged to promote peace, and better friendship , prosperity and good health especially in the fight against Polio which tends to be a challenge.
This year’s convention took place at the BMO Centre and Scotiabank Saddledome at Stampede Park, bringing together a global network of volunteers to share their Rotary experiences and benefit from renowned speakers addressing topics of mutual interest that can positively impact the world.
It was also an avenue where the mantle of leadership is exchanged. The Rotary International President 2024-2025, Stephanie Urchick gave a great speech of her stewardship while thanking Rotarians and Rotary sponsors for all the support and love she enjoyed.
The Rotary International President Elect, Francesco Arezzo automatically takes over from the 1st of July 2025 – 30th June 2026.
He noted that Rotary has changed his life for the better while requesting for support from Rotarians and Friends for a more impactful Rotary year.
The next Rotary International Convention 2026 is expected to hold in Taiwan, Taipei.