District 9112 Beach Cleaning Program Highlights

Under the leadership of Rotarian Olufemi Adenekan, the Rotary International (RI) District 9112 has generously donated cleaning equipment valued at close to 500,000 naira to the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA) as part of its efforts to promote cleanliness in Lagos.

The donation occurred during the third phase of District 9112’s tree planting initiative, titled “Beach Cleaning Program,” an initiative designed to give back to the community.

The program took place on Thursday, May 29th, at Elegushi Beach, with the attendance of distinguished guests, including RI representative Rtn. Consigliere Alberto Cecchini, accompanied by his cousin, Rotarian Corrado Danilo Cirilli, District Governor’s spouse Rotarian Tayo Adenekan, alongside other Rotarians and friends.

The day commenced with a beach cleaning exercise, which was followed by a tree-planting session. Additionally, coconut and other seedlings were distributed to the attending Rotary Clubs for use in public schools.

Participants enthusiastically engaged in this final tree-planting activity of the Rotary year which is in collaboration with LAWMA, despite the rainy weather.

In his remarks, GOC Bada, Chair of the Environment Committee, stated that the program was intentionally rescheduled to ensure the participation of the RI representative, Rtn. Consigliere Alberto Cecchini. He emphasized the importance of protecting natural surroundings amidst climate change. He expressed gratitude to the District Governor, Rtn. Olufemi for personally purchasing the necessary equipment and further donating to the agency. His words “I would like to thank the District Governor for his unwavering support. His actions surprised us—he went to the market to purchase all the necessary equipment, which truly demonstrates his sincerity and commitment to service.”

RI Rep, Rtn. Consigliere Alberto Cecchini remarked, “I commend the Rotarians for their dedicated efforts towards environmental sustainability. What we do today benefits not only our current generation but also the future. We must take action for future generations, as our responsibilities extend beyond ourselves. As Rotarians worldwide, we are united in our commitment to safeguarding our planet, and I am delighted to stand with you today in this important endeavor.”

DG Rtn. Olufemi highlighted the significance of environmental responsibility, stating, “We do not own this planet; it belongs to our children and generations to come. It is our responsibility to preserve it in the best way that we can bequeath it back to them. We are the ones living in the environment. We are to protect ourselves from the environment, not to protect the environment because the environment will always have its place. We must leave a legacy they can inherit. Let us all strive to contribute to making the world a better place.”

Oge Nwabueze