In this interview with HENRY FALAIYE, Rotarian Henry Akinyele, who is expected to be inaugurated on July 13, 2025 as the second District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, discusses his plans for building the district.
You are set to be inaugurated as the District Governor of Rotary District 9111 in Nigeria. Could you share more about your background and journey with the public?
My name is Prince Henry Olubowale Akinyele, and I am proudly from Ondo State. I began my educational journey at the prestigious St. Joseph College Ondo, before obtaining my Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Statistics and Computer Science from The Polytechnic Iree. I later advanced my studies at the University of Ilorin, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics. Over the years, I have completed several professional courses, particularly in entrepreneurship and related fields. I am a seasoned entrepreneur with diverse business interests. I own and manage a printing outfit, operate within the hospitality sector, and have a strong passion for logistics. My company also specializes in corporate branding and promotional services. Additionally, my family has a longstanding relationship with Rotary International, having made significant financial contributions in support of its initiatives.
Nigerians have a different understanding of the Rotary Club in the actual sense. What does Rotary stand for?
That is a question that touches on a common misunderstanding. Nigerians are part of a powerful global network—over 1.4 million professionals, business leaders, and community influencers who are united under one mission: to serve humanity and create positive, lasting change. These are individuals who have encountered various perceptions and even misconceptions about Rotary, yet they remain committed to its values because they understand its true purpose. Rotary is not just another club; it is a respected international organization driven by integrity, committed to advancing global peace, promoting understanding, and delivering humanitarian service through impactful projects across the world. With a presence in over 200 countries and territories and a strong digital footprint—Rotary is globally recognised. It even holds a permanent seat at the United Nations, underscoring its influence and credibility on the world stage. So, any misconception whether among Nigerians or the global public often arises from a lack of full understanding of what Rotary truly represents. We are transparent, we meet openly in public spaces, our clubs are deeply rooted in local communities, and our service projects directly impact lives. We also prioritize family and friendship, creating a culture of belonging while doing good in the world. I believe that gives a clearer and more accurate picture of what Rotary stands for. And come July 13, during what we have fittingly themed the “Royal Installation,” we will further celebrate and reinforce this noble legacy.
After spending over 30 years in Rotary, first as a Rotaractor in the Rotary Club of Ikosi, how do you feel mounting the saddle?
I am deeply honored and truly excited to serve as the second District Governor of Rotary International, District 9111. This journey, as rightly noted, has spanned over three decades, a remarkable and fulfilling experience. I first encountered Rotary in my early 20s, through a friend’s father who invited me to one of their events. The structure, discipline, and unique approach to community service stood out distinctly from other organizations I had known.
When I got to the university, I found myself naturally drawn to the ideals of Rotary. Even with the limited resources we had as students, we carried out some meaningful community projects and that deeply inspired me. The Rotary motto, Service Above Self, resonated powerfully with me. It affirmed that this was the kind of organisation I wanted to be a part of, one that gives back selflessly. Over the years, I have grown through the ranks and gained invaluable experience. I often share during my engagements that I have had the privilege to serve Rotary in various capacities. I spent around seven years as a Rotaractor and have now served nearly 24 years as a Rotarian. I have contributed to several district-level committees including membership, fundraising for the Rotary Foundation, and service committees. I have also chaired installation ceremonies, been a part of the learning (training) committee, and currently serve as a faculty member of the Rotary Leadership Institute. Each step along this journey has taught me something new, shaping me into a more effective servant leader. I am truly grateful to God and to the district for entrusting me with this responsibility. As I take on this role, I bring with me a vision to strengthen our organisational structure and drive impactful service guided by humility, transparency, and accountability.
You are a Statistician and you also operate in the printing, promotion, events, and logistics sectors. How would all of these impact your role as a District Governor?
I strongly believe that my diverse background across multiple sectors will significantly enhance my performance as a District Governor. My expertise in statistics, for instance, equips me with the ability to make informed, data-driven decisions, an approach that has already proven effective in my leadership. During the selection of my team, I applied statistical analysis to ensure inclusivity and balance, taking into account gender, ethnicity, age, and equitable representation across all clubs within the district. With over 74 Rotary clubs spread across Lagos and Ogun States, this data-focused method has been instrumental in promoting fairness and inclusiveness. Additionally, my experience in printing and corporate promotions gives me a unique advantage in crafting compelling communication strategies. This skill has allowed me to connect more effectively with stakeholders, particularly within the business community, by presenting ideas in an engaging and a visually appealing format. A recent example was the presentation of my goals and activities, which received wide commendation for its clarity, creativity, and professionalism. My background in logistics, hospitality, and event management has further strengthened my ability to organize impactful, well-coordinated events. This will be evident in our upcoming installation ceremony, conferences, and other major district engagements. These skills collectively provide me with a broad network and the capacity to foster strategic partnerships with corporate organizations, community leaders, and like-minded collaborators. In essence, my interdisciplinary experience offers a strong foundation to lead effectively, drive innovative programs, and create lasting impact within the district.
What plans and activities do you have for the District in the 2025-2026 Rotary Year?
Rotary operates within a well-defined structure, and that framework makes leadership responsibilities more manageable for individuals with experience. One of the core strengths of Rotary is its deep commitment to continuous training. Personally, I have undergone three significant training programs in preparation for assuming the role of District Governor. The insights and knowledge gained from those trainings will be instrumental in guiding my administration. Our foremost priority is increasing membership.
The scale and impact of our projects are directly proportional to the strength of our numbers. A larger membership base translates to the capacity for broader initiatives, greater outreach, and stronger fundraising for the Rotary Foundation. These are aligned with the vision of the Rotary International President, who has emphasised on membership. We are targeting at least a 30 per cent increase by the end of the Rotary year. From an expected starting point of around 2,000 to 2,400 members, our aim is to grow the district to over 3,000 members. The Rotary Foundation is the heartbeat of our organization—it powers our global impact. We plan to intensify fundraising efforts for the Foundation, reinforcing its capacity to support meaningful, life-changing projects across communities. We are committed to enhancing Rotary’s visibility and public engagement. Through robust PR campaigns across electronic, print, and social media platforms, we will tell the Rotary story—its impact, values, and opportunities more broadly and effectively than ever before. Our district also has its own foundation, the District Education Welfare and Endowment Fund (DWEF), which plays a vital role in supporting educational and welfare initiatives. A major focus of our tenure will be mobilizing resources to strengthen this fund, ensuring it continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve. As a former Rotaractor myself, I understand the challenges facing younger members especially economic barriers that hinder their transition into full Rotary membership. We will create supportive pathways to help Rotaractors integrate seamlessly into Rotary, ensuring that we retain and nurture this vital pipeline of future leaders.
In addition to these focus areas; we have a strong commitment to humanitarian service. One key project on the horizon is the establishment of a Peace Center. Building on an existing peace studies short course introduced this Rotary year, we aspire by the grace of God to construct a dedicated facility for ongoing peace education and leadership training. Together, through these initiatives, we will not only strengthen Rotary in our district but also expand our impact far beyond.
What exactly are your major projects?
Our major focus is on impactful, community-driven projects executed through our clubs. One of our flagship initiatives is the establishment of a Peace Center, as previously mentioned. Beyond that, we are deeply committed to grassroots development. To that end, we are deliberately steering our projects away from the usual club-centric model and directing our efforts towards meaningful interventions that uplift underserved communities. A key project we are undertaking is the renovation and reconstruction of at least 20 sickbays in public schools across various states. Each club will be encouraged to adopt one or more of these schools, with the district providing partial funding support. This partnership model ensures that both the district and individual clubs collaborate to deliver real, lasting impact within their communities. In addition, we are launching a major eye screening campaign targeting public school students. Our goal is to screen a minimum of 10,000 students, and for those diagnosed with visual impairments, we will provide corrective eyeglasses at no cost. This initiative is rooted in our belief that good vision is critical to a child’s learning and overall well-being. Ultimately, our projects are designed to reach and benefit the masses. We are committed to addressing real needs and making a tangible difference in people’s lives through our collective service efforts.
How does Rotary International support development in Nigeria?
Rotary’s financial and developmental contributions to Nigeria are truly monumental. Beyond its flagship polio eradication efforts, which it has invested over $300m in, Rotary has consistently channeled significant resources into the country. Imagine such a vast sum solely for eradicating one disease. In addition, Rotary is driving a massive $2bn initiative focused on maternal and child health. It has also launched the Community Health Challenge, a pioneering pilot programme tackling common yet deadly illnesses such as pneumonia and malaria. Just recently, Rotary approved a fresh $9m intervention fund for Nigeria. When you tally these investments, the total commitment becomes staggering. And these figures do not even include the numerous grassroots projects executed independently by local Rotary clubs across the country. Nigeria is home to six Rotary districts, each brimming with clubs that carry out impactful, community-specific projects nationwide. From urban centers to remote villages, Rotary’s presence is deeply embedded. Their unwavering commitment and immense contributions cannot be overstated—they are a cornerstone of humanitarian support in Nigeria.
Over the last 30 years, you have been doing what we call humanitarian services. What does this mean to you?
To have been part of this organization for over 30 years is nothing short of an incredible journey. And by God’s grace, as long as life endures, I will continue to serve. Words can’t fully express the deep sense of joy and fulfillment I feel being part of this global network of people committed to doing good in the world. You see, only God can truly reward someone who chooses to serve the less privileged, especially those you have never met, who may never be able to thank you. That is what makes this work even more meaningful. It is not about recognition, titles, or accolades. It is about making a difference where it is needed most, often in communities where your name will never be known. Rotary goes far beyond local or personal interests. It’s about reaching across borders to bring lasting impact. Recently, I was in a remote village in another state to commission a major water sanitation, and hygiene project. It was a large-scale initiative — reticulated water tank serving six communities. I had never been to that area before. Yet, witnessing the sheer excitement and gratitude of the people was indescribable.
I am reminded of something our current Rotary International President shared. She was in an African village where, for the very first time, children saw clean water flowing from a tap. The joy on their faces was unforgettable because they had only ever known streams and rivers. That moment captures what Rotary is all about. Right now, we are also undertaking a massive cataract surgery initiative. Recently, we successfully performed around 630 eye surgeries. Imagine someone who hasn’t seen in 17 years, unable to recognise their own child been led into a theatre by Rotarians and emerging, days later, with restored vision. That transformation, that joy, is priceless. These are the moments that bring true gladness to our hearts. This is why we do what we do. Because impacting humanity bringing hope, healing, and help is the most rewarding thing one can do in life.
So what inspired you to join Rotary?
My introduction to Rotary was through friends whose passion and energy for service were truly inspiring. Despite being young, they were already leading impactful community projects. That spirit of service and giving back with whatever little you have is at the very heart of Rotary. Now, the big question is: how do we get more Nigerians involved in community service through Rotary? The answer is simple by inviting them in and showing them the value of what we do. Rotary is a highly respected organization with a legacy of over 120 years and a presence in more than 200 countries. It’s a global network committed to making real, lasting change. To every Nigerian who believes in “Service Above Self”, who believes in using their time, skills, and resources to uplift others, I urge you to join Rotary. There is a misconception that Rotary is expensive. That is not true. What matters is the willingness to contribute, no matter how small and the desire to make a difference. Let’s give back. Let’s serve. Let’s build stronger communities together.
How do you want to grow the district and make it a formidable district?
As part of our strategic vision for the Rotary year, our goal is to significantly expand membership across our district. Specifically, we aim to form 15 new Rotary Clubs, each with an average of 25 members. In addition, we are encouraging existing clubs to grow their membership by at least 20 per cent while also prioritizing member retention. If we’re able to achieve this across the district, we could potentially welcome as many as seven new members per club, creating a vibrant and formidable network by the end of the Rotary year. If this becomes a reality and I am optimistic that it will—it would be a remarkable success. I am deeply humbled by the prospect of achieving such growth and impact. I believe this success would be the result of several key factors. First and foremost, the unwavering support from my immediate and extended family, my friends, mentors, and peers has been a solid foundation throughout this journey. Their encouragement has fueled my determination and given me the strength to pursue this vision with focus and resilience. Personally, I am driven by a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to continuous self-improvement. I value learning, creativity, and adaptability. These qualities have allowed me to develop innovative strategies and tackle challenges head-on. My professional background as both a printer and an engineer has contributed a wealth of practical experience and perspective that I apply in my leadership role. More importantly, my long-standing association with Rotary spanning over 30 years has been instrumental in shaping who I am today. Rotary has taught me that life is not just about personal advancement, but about making a positive difference in the lives of others. It has exposed me to service-driven leadership, and through various projects and initiatives, I have gained invaluable experience in networking, resource mobilisation, and public engagement. Even as a young student leader, Rotary taught me how to mobilize teams, organise impactful events, and lead with purpose. As I look ahead to my tenure as Rotary District Governor in 2025–2026, I am confident that all of these experiences will come together to help me lead effectively and inclusively. I must also address a common misconception. Some people believe that Rotary is exclusive or inaccessible, this is simply not true. Rotary is a global network of professionals, community leaders, and business people united by the goal of serving humanity with integrity. Our activities are open and public. From installation ceremonies to club meetings and service projects, Rotary operates transparently and inclusively. To those who remain skeptical, I warmly invite you to attend a Rotary Club meeting or participate in our community service projects and see for yourself the impact we make. Rotary is not a secretive organization; it is a diverse and welcoming community for anyone passionate about service, peace, and goodwill. Let us work together to build a stronger, more compassionate world through Rotary.
Your installation scheduled for July 13 has been tagged Royal Installation. What is the concept behind the Royal Installation?
Yes, this is truly a special moment for me. I’m deeply honoured that my installation is being referred to as a Royal Installation. While that wasn’t entirely my personal idea, we have a dedicated committee in place planning the event, and they chose this theme. I come from a royal lineage — I am a direct prince. The choice of the word “Royal” for this event, however, goes beyond titles or heritage. To me, it represents an aspiration for elegance, sophistication, and grandeur in the way the installation is presented. I believe our guests will experience something far beyond the typical district governor installation. This event is being thoughtfully designed to be both impactful and reflective of Rotary’s core values. It promises to be a memorable and significant occasion for all involved.
