… Distinguished Rotarian to Lead Humanitarian Service, Drive Membership Growth Across Nigeria
Rashidat Olushola Okunlade Writes | Lagos
PDG Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, CON, MFR, FNIM, CNIM, FCIB, F.CIoD, has emerged as Chairman of the Rotary Nigeria Governors’ Council (RNGC) following his unanimous election at the Council’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday, May 29, 2026, in Lagos.
The election marks a significant milestone in the distinguished Rotarian’s four-decade journey of service, leadership, and commitment to strengthening Rotary’s humanitarian impact in Nigeria. He will lead the Council for a two-year term, succeeding the previous leadership team.
A Seasoned Leadership Team
The new Chairman will be supported by a formidable team of experienced Rotarians:
PDG Dan Ajawara — Vice Chairman, PDG Elvis Chukwu — Secretary General, PDG Ikponnwosa Ogiemudia — Treasurer, PDG Ify Ejezie — Welfare Officer, PDG Kayode Olowolagba — Public Relations Officer.
Representing the six Rotary Districts in Nigeria are:
PDG Remi Bello — District 9111, PDG Deinde Shoga — District 9112, PDG Obafunso Ogunkeye — District 9126, PDG M.A.T. Gbande — District 9127, Adeyemi Oladokun — District 9141, PDG Emman Ude-Akpeh — District 9142, PDG Tunji Funso will serve as Ex Officio member, providing institutional memory and guidance to the new leadership team.
A Vision for Purposeful Leadership
In his acceptance speech, PDG Asiwaju Dr. Olawale-Cole pledged to provide purposeful leadership that would grow Rotary in Nigeria and make the organisation’s humanitarian services more impactful across the country.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening Rotary’s presence in every community, increasing membership, and ensuring that the organisation’s programmes continue to address the most pressing needs of Nigerian society.
A Distinguished Rotary Journey
PDG Asiwaju Dr. Olawale-Cole’s emergence as Chairman caps a remarkable journey of service that began in 1980 when he joined Rotary International. His leadership journey includes a distinguished tenure as District Governor of Rotary International District 9110, Nigeria, during the 2005–2006 Rotary year.
Since 2007, he has continued to serve at the Rotary International level, demonstrating exceptional leadership and financial stewardship. Most recently, he served as a Member of the Rotary International Finance Committee from 2021 to 2024, where he contributed to the global governance and financial oversight of one of the world’s largest humanitarian organisations.
His national honours, Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), reflect his outstanding contributions to national development, while his professional fellowships underscore his commitment to excellence in management, banking, and corporate governance.
Strengthening Rotary’s Impact in Nigeria
The Rotary Nigeria Governors’ Council coordinates the activities of Rotary districts across the country, ensuring alignment with Rotary International’s strategic priorities while addressing local humanitarian needs.
Under Olawale-Cole’s leadership, the Council is expected to focus on expanding polio eradication efforts, advancing literacy and education, improving access to clean water and sanitation, supporting maternal and child health, and promoting economic empowerment across Nigerian communities.
The unanimous election signals strong confidence among the nation’s Rotary leadership in Olawale-Cole’s ability to guide the organisation through an ambitious agenda of service, growth, and impact.
Reported by: Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
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