Pushes Strategic Communication for Visibility and Credibility
Rotary International District 9111 has taken bold steps to amplify its public perception to strengthen awareness of its humanitarian impact.
The event had Rotarians, journalists, communication experts and guests converge on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, for a Public Image Seminar themed “Strengthening Rotary’s Visibility and Credibility Through Strategic Communication.” The seminar, held at Keystone Bank Hall, Rotary Centre, 8 Ladoke Akintola Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, became a platform for strengthening communication capacity, enhancing Rotary’s public image and equipping leaders with practical tools to tell impactful Rotary stories.
Serving as convener and Chief Host of the seminar was District Governor, Rtn Prince Henry Akinyele, while Chief Yemi Akeju, Chairman of Ideas Communications Ltd, functioned as Chairman of the event. In attendance was Hon. Stephen Olukayode Ogundipe, Chairman of Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, who served as Special Guest of Honour, alongside Rtn (Dr.) Segun Musa, GMD Widescope International Logistics Ltd as Guest of Honour. The event also featured Mr Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, and Hon. Kayode Akinmade, Ogun State Commissioner for Information & Strategy as Keynote Speakers.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of District Governor Prince Henry Akinyele, Chairman, Rotary District 9111 Public Image Committee, Rtn Olalekan Otun, retraced Rotary’s roots back to 1905 when Paul Harris (1868–1947), a Chicago-based attorney, invited three friends, Silvester Schiele, Hiram Shorey and Gustavo Loehr, to form what later became the first Rotary Club in Chicago. From that historic beginning, Rotary has grown into a global network of over 1.2 million members championing service, leadership and humanitarian impact.
He highlighted Rotary’s legendary End Polio campaign, describing how the initiative has saved millions of children globally from paralysis and death. He also explained the emergence of District 9111 alongside District 9112 after the split of the former 9110 in the 2024–2025 Rotary year, covering Lagos and Ogun States under the leadership of District Governor Prince Henry Akinyele.
Rtn Otun stressed that Rotary’s public image shapes how the world perceives its actions, projects and values. A strong and positive image attracts new members, builds partnerships and strengthens fundraising capacity. He explained that public image officers are responsible for shaping perceptions, branding, managing digital content, media relations, crisis communication and community engagement. He acknowledged journalists and non-Rotarians present, expressing hope that their interest will inspire future membership into Rotary.
In a remark that resonated across the hall, District Governor Prince Henry Akinyele addressed Rotarians and guests, urging a deliberate shift in how Rotary presents itself to the public. He emphasized that Rotary’s impact must be clearly visible for people to understand and appreciate the work Rotarians are doing in communities. He stated that visibility is essential for growth, stressing that when people see Rotary’s interventions, more individuals will be compelled to join the movement and contribute to humanitarian service. He encouraged clubs to strengthen storytelling, media relations and branding to enhance recognition and credibility.
The Keynote Address delivered by Hon. Stephen Olukayode Ogundipe expanded on the importance of public image management for both internal and external stakeholders. He reiterated Rotary’s founding story, celebrated the success of the End Polio initiative and commended District 9111 for its efforts in safeguarding children against polio in Lagos State. He applauded the leadership style of District Governor Prince Henry Akinyele and praised the District Public Image Committee led by Rtn Olalekan Otun for assembling seasoned speakers across journalism, broadcasting, advertising, branding and Public Relations. He encouraged more professionals within Lagos and Ogun to join Rotary in promoting development, humanitarian service and community impact.
The seminar also featured insightful themed sessions from notable speakers. Mrs Bimbo Oloyede, veteran broadcaster, spoke on Telling Rotary Stories with Clarity and Impact. Mr John Ajayi, Publisher of Marketing Edge Magazine, addressed Strategic Media Engagement and Rotary Brand. Rtn Jide Ogunleye, MD Timeline Technology Ltd, explained how to use social media to amplify Rotary stories. Mr Muyiwa Akande, Group Head Corporate Communications, Sifax Group, discussed PR strategies for effective storytelling, while Rtn Samuel Ayetutu, District Governor-Nominee and NIPR Lagos Chapter Chairman, focused on branding and corporate image alignment for Rotary.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to speakers in recognition of their societal contributions and professional impact. The awards were jointly presented by the District Governor and the District Governor-Elect, adding a moment of celebration and appreciation to the day’s proceedings.
The atmosphere reflected learning, fellowship and renewed commitment to Rotary’s public image advancement. Rotarians and guests departed with fresh insights, strengthened communication skills and a renewed drive to project Rotary’s work with clarity, excellence and visibility.
With this seminar, Rotary District 9111 sets a vibrant tone for intentional storytelling and strategic image positioning, ensuring that society not only hears about Rotary, but sees its good works, understands its value and joins in service to humanity.
By Benprince Ezeh
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