By Perpetua Onuegbu, News Agency of Nigeria, Abuja

Rotary International District 9127, has expressed its commitment to promoting bonding, networking and celebrating its service ideals.

The District Governor, 9127, Dame Joy Okoro, stated this at the organisation’s annual Family of Rotary Funfair at the weekend in Abuja.

Okoro described the occasion as “a way to unwind,” noting that the funfair had become a significant tradition for Rotary members globally.

“This day, set aside every December, allows us to sit together, relax and enjoy time with our families and friends,” she said.

Okoro traced the origin of the Family of Rotary Day to the late John Majiyagbe, the first Black and Nigerian President of Rotary International, who proposed the idea at the Council on Legislation.

“He felt that after moving from place to place helping others, there should be a day for Rotarians to gather with their families and celebrate. That is why we are here today,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the funfair, organised for Zones 1 and 2, saw a large turnout of Rotary members, their children, grandchildren and invited guests.

NAN also reports that Zones 3 and 4 are expected to hold similar events in Kaduna and Jos respectively.

Speaking further, the district governor said beyond entertainment, the event served as an avenue to strengthen bonds within the Rotary family.

“Most of the time, our children don’t understand the work we do when we attend Rotary functions or projects. But here, they get to see Rotarians interact, make friends and understand our spirit of service.

“The funfair also supports Rotary membership drives. It’s a way of inviting people into the Rotary family.

“When membership increases, giving to our foundation increases and our foundation is one of the best in the world,” she said.

Addressing the broader social challenges faced globally since the COVID-19 pandemic, Okoro said Rotary had continued to adopt and support communities struggling with hardship.

“We all face challenges. This is a way to harmonise, share love and move forward together. It aligns with rotary ethics,” she said.

Okoro highlighted Rotary’s work across its seven areas of focus, including its renewed commitment to polio eradication.

“Rotary has promised every child—born and unborn—that they will not suffer from polio. We put in a lot of advocacy to ensure every child is vaccinated, free of charge,” she said.

The district governor commended supporters of Rotary’s PolioPlus programme in Nigeria, saying that they had given so much to protect children from polio.

Okoro also acknowledged global partners like UNICEF and United Nations for supporting vaccination efforts.

On her part, Princess Nneka Atuanya, Chairperson, 2025 Family of Rotary Committee, commended the district governor for her guidance in making the day a success.

On the state of the nation, Atuanya urged citizens to always give security agents information that could help them fight insecurity in the country.

“When people refuse to say what they see, they only end up emboldening the criminals,” she stated.

One of the fun seekers at the event, Racheal Ajisebutu, commended the organisers for what she described as a wonderful outing.

She said that the club had great impacts on her, giving her opportunities that would not have been possible without such an atmosphere of friendship and love.

NAN reports that the family Funfair featured activities like soap soccer, climbing castle for children, tug of war challenges, dance competition and cultural music, among others.

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA