District Governor, Rotarian Olufemi Adenekan’s Message – February 2025 “Peace Building and Conflict Prevention Month”

Peacebuilding & Conflict Prevention Month

Celebrating 120 Years of Rotary International

Dear Fellow Rotarians and Members of the Rotary Family,

I welcome you to the month of February, a time of great significance for Rotary. This month, we not only observe Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month but also celebrate 120 years of Rotary’s existence! Since our founding on February 23, 1905, Rotary has grown into a global force for good, uniting people of action to create lasting change in communities worldwide.

Rotary’s Commitment to Peace

For over a century, peace has been at the heart of Rotary’s mission. Through our programs and initiatives, we work to address the root causes of conflict—such as poverty, inequality, and lack of education—empowering individuals and communities to create a more just and harmonious world.

Rotary’s Peace Fellowship Program, community peace projects, and partnerships with global organizations continue to foster understanding and reconciliation. As Rotarians, we have the unique ability to bridge divides, promote dialogue, and be catalysts for peace in our communities.

Our Role in Peacebuilding

As we celebrate 120 years of Service Above Self, let us reaffirm our role as peacebuilders. I encourage every Rotary club in our district to take meaningful action:
✔️ Host community dialogues to promote understanding and inclusivity.
✔️ Support refugee and humanitarian assistance programs to help those displaced by conflict.
✔️ Educate youth on conflict resolution and leadership to nurture a culture of peace.

Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, equity, and opportunity. Every small action we take—whether through advocacy, service, or leadership—contributes to a more peaceful world.

Looking Ahead: Shaping the Future

This 120th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past achievements; it is also a call to action for the future. As we honor Rotary’s legacy, let us challenge ourselves to do more, serve more, and inspire more.

I urge you to reflect on what peace means to you and how we can collectively build a world where understanding triumphs over division. Our commitment to peace begins in our communities—through education, dialogue, and service.

A Call to Action

For us in Rotary International District 9112, the 120 Years Anniversary Committee has planned a week-long series of activities from February 15th to 23rd. These celebrations will culminate in the Rotary Foundation Dinner and Dance at the prestigious Civic Centre, Victoria Island.

I join both planning committees in inviting all Rotarians to fully participate in these events. Together, as we mark 120 years of impact, let’s make this February a month of transformation. Let us be advocates for peace, leading with compassion, understanding, and hope. Let us continue serving, inspiring, and building peace—for the next 120 years and beyond!

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to Rotary’s mission,as we continue to create the Magic of Rotary.

Yours in Rotary Service,

Olufemi Adenekan
Pioneer and Irresistible District Governor
Rotary International District 9112