Rotary Club of Gowon Estate Lagos has reiterated its commitment to promoting vocational training, entrepreneurship development for women and young entrepreneurs as a way to cushion the effects of rising cost of living in the community.
The newly elected President of the Club, Ibiam Festus Uko disclosed this during his investiture and the induction of board of directors for 2026/ 2027 service year, held in Lagos.
Uko, who is the 31st president of the Club, stated that the Club would focus on impact-driven projects that equip residents with practical skills to become self-reliant.
‘Through our proposed Youth Enterprise and Digital Skills Development Innovation Centre, we will equip young people with ICT and employability skills needed for today’s economy.
‘We will support sustainable community projects, including the installation of solar-powered lighting in strategic public spaces where feasible, while advocating environmental sustainability through tree planting and sanitation campaigns.
‘Our goal is simple to create lasting impact by improving lives, strengthening families, and building a more resilient Gowon Estate community’.
He added that with inflation and high cost of goods making life difficult for many households, empowering people with skills is the most sustainable way to tackle poverty at the grassroots.
Describing youths as not just the leaders of tomorrow, he said they are partners in building today’s society.
‘We believe that when young people are empowered with opportunities, they become agents of peace rather than victims of social challenges.
‘Our Club will collaborate with schools, community leaders, security agencies, and faith-based organisations to conduct awareness campaigns against drug abuse, cultism, and violence’, Uko added.
Highpoints of the event include; the launch of Uko’s new book, ‘WORK DEY OH! Sleep Intentionally and Wake Up with Purpose – Creating Lasting Impact’ and the induction of new board members who will serve alongside President Uko in driving the Club’s humanitarian and community development agenda for the year.
Speaking on his newly launched book, the author described it as a practical guide to purposeful living, intentional leadership, and legacy building.
He urged individuals, especially young people, to embrace discipline, resilience, and service as pathways to personal and societal transformation.
A fundraising session held during the ceremony received support from guests, philanthropists, corporate organisations, and members of the public.
According to Uko, proceeds will be used to finance the Club’s humanitarian projects across Gowon Estate and neighbouring communities.
On her part, Chairman Rotary Club of Gowon Estate Lagos, Toyin Musa-Agboneni commended the newly installed president of the Club and added that his dedication, commitment to humanity will continue to inspire the members.
‘We are confident that under your leadership, our Club will reach ever greater heights in service, fellowship and impact”, Agboneni added.
Also speaking, Ajumjum Theresa encouraged every member of the Club to rally behind the incoming president so as to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
The event drew Rotary leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, professionals, corporate organisations, members of the diplomatic and business communities, and friends of Rotary.