May 8, 2008 - Rotary International District 9110 Symposium And Award Of Excellence
Let me use this opportunity to once again welcome to Nigeria and indeed Lagos State Dr. Catherine Norye-Riveau in whose honour, I am informed this symposium is being organised by Rotary International District 9110 Nigeria.
I also congratulate her on her election into the Board of Rotary International, the highest position, I understand being held by a woman.
I congratulate the District Governor 2007-08, Rotarian Somo Omoniyi and the entire members of the District for organising this high profile symposium which will feature the launch of a project on Child Health with special focus on Diabetes and Malaria.
Rotary is no doubt one of the foremost service organisations that have contributed immensely towards improving the quality of life of millions of people all over the world. In particular, the role being played by Rotary organisations all over Nigeria in supporting the fight against polio and malaria under the Roll Back Malaria programme is most commendable.
It gladdens my heart to know that Nigeria occupies a pride of place in Rotary International as was demonstrated a couple of years ago when a Nigerian in the person of Rotarian Jon Majiyagbe rose to the post of President. Let me use this opportunity to congratulate him while hoping that we will not rest on our oars in sustaining our commitment and dedication to promoting the ideals of Rotary.
Finally, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the honour of being one of the awardees of this occasion. I will continue to cherish this award which I consider a challenge to renew my commitment to selfless service to humanity.
Once again, I congratulate our Chief Guest of Honour and wish her success in all her efforts to keep the flag of Rotary International flying.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State