Rotary Nigeria hosted its 2025 National Convention in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, bringing together thousands of Rotarians and Rotaractors from November 20–22 to celebrate achievements and chart new directions for humanitarian growth. The annual event, known as the All Nigerian Rotary Convention (ANRC), highlighted Rotary Nigeria’s commitment to service, peacebuilding, and community development.The three-day convention attracted delegates from all 15 Rotary districts in Nigeria, alongside international guests. The gathering blended celebration with strategic dialogue focused on expanding initiatives in health, peace, education, and economic development.
Activities opened with the Yinka Bonfire Night, a special tribute to Rotary International President-Elect Yinka Babalola, who will become the first Nigerian to lead Rotary International in its 120-year history when he assumes office for the 2026–2027 term. One of the highlights of the convention was the presentation of a Special Peace Award to Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. The joint honour, presented by Nigeria’s Rotary districts, recognized the governor’s commitment to peace and inclusive development.Receiving the award on behalf of the governor, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba, expressed the administration’s willingness to strengthen partnerships with Rotary on community-focused projects that improve lives across Rivers State.Delegates also heard a keynote address from the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, titled “Rebuilding a Fractured Nation.” Bishop Kukah praised Rotary’s culture of integrity and urged Nigerians to rebuild trust within families, institutions, and communities.RI President-Elect Yinka Babalola delivered a major address, “A New Dawn for Africa: Imperatives for Growth,” calling for stronger collaboration across districts, accelerated membership expansion, and increased support for The Rotary Foundation (TRF).
TRF Trustee Chair, Ijeoma Okoro, reinforced the need to maximise global grants, reminding delegates of the Foundation’s four-star Charity Navigator rating and its growing impact across Africa.The convention also featured a series of technical and thematic sessions. Past District Governor Joshua Hassan led discussions on sustaining Nigeria’s polio-free status. Delegates reviewed major humanitarian projects including Together for Healthy Families Nigeria and the Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge. PDGs Nze Anizor and Obafunsho Ogunkeye explored new strategies for modern volunteerism and membership development, while public-private partnership opportunities were spotlighted by development expert Ibim Semenitari.
Rotaractors played a notable role throughout the weekend, pushing for dual membership, expanded mentorship, and stronger youth leadership structures within Rotary.District 9142 emerged winner of the inter-district cultural competition with a colourful performance that showcased Nigerian music, dance, and heritage.The 2025 ANRC closed with a renewed call for unity, collaboration, and service, with delegates reaffirming Rotary Nigeria’s mission to strengthen communities and build lasting peace across the country.
