The governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has made a compelling call for collaboration, shared responsibility, and good neighbourliness as essential tools in addressing Nigeria’s health and societal challenges.
The governor spoke in Abuja on Saturday at the inauguration and Investiture of Rotarian Dr. Joy Nky Okoro as the new District Governor of Rotary International, Nigeria, where he praised Rotary’s values and its decades-long record of humanitarian service.
The governor underscored the urgent need for collaborative solutions to Nigeria’s pressing health crises, saying, “In Nigeria today, we are still faced with the troubling issues of infant and maternal mortality among the worst in Africa.
“Your investments in healthcare and access to water are not misplaced. Government, though willing, cannot do everything. We rely on organisations like yours to fill the gaps where public resources and systems fall short.”
Stressing that compassion and civic responsibility are what the world needs today, which Rotary International has been doing for decades, the governor said, “The Bible redefined the concept of ‘neighbour’, not by geography, but by need. Those around us who are in need are our neighbours.
“I am sure that what has driven many of us to contribute meaningfully is the faith and knowledge that we were born to serve.
“Someone once said there is a time to be born and a time to die, in between is an opportunity to live, to the glory of God and for the benefit of mankind. I believe this is the essence of Rotary International: that we live for one another.”
“I want to congratulate Rotary for years of standing with the vulnerable. You have shown us what it means to be human.”
Encouraging further action from civic leaders and philanthropists, he added, “Many have acquired wealth that their children squander or never use for good. The real legacy is how you use your resources to uplift humanity. I urge you to deploy your time, talents, and treasures for causes that truly matter.”
While congratulating and wishing the new DG many more years of active and beneficial service to humanity, to the glory of God, he assured Rotary of his administration’s openness to partnerships that advance the common good. “We will continue to collaborate with Rotary and like-minded organizations. Together, we can make life better for our people,” he said.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Okoro as the second District Governor of Rotary International District 9127, pledged to sustain that vision by deepening Rotary’s community-based interventions, particularly for women and children
While outlining a clear, targeted plan to improve maternal health and uplift vulnerable populations, she said, “I am deeply conscious of the faith you have placed in me to lead for the 2025–2026 Rotary year.
Rotary has impacted lives globally from polio eradication to peacebuilding and promoting clean water. I intend to build on that legacy.”
With maternal and child health topping her agenda, Dr. Okoro emphasized that her leadership would be rooted in tangible action, adding that work has already began.
“This week in Masaka, we visited over 100 pregnant women and distributed maternal kits. We also identified about 20 women due for cesarean sections who could not afford the procedure. We will support them financially to undergo those operations,” she said.
On polio, she reaffirmed Rotary’s unwavering commitment to total eradication, saying, “Through advocacy and outreach, we will encourage community participation. We’ll train health workers and deploy Rotarians to reach the last mile. Polio must become history in Nigeria.”
Dr. Okoro also outlined Rotary’s broader humanitarian focus, “Social benevolence is one of the key pillars of our mission. Though my tenure is one year, these programs will continue under future leadership. We are setting structures for sustainability,” she said.
She confirmed that N150 million has been budgeted for key projects across all Rotary areas of focus, including education, economic empowerment, and peacebuilding.
“Every kobo will go into life-changing initiatives. We will foster partnerships that multiply our impact and implement projects that empower women and children.
“This country must become a place where women are no longer seen as victims of their circumstances but as architects of their own futures. We must light the path for others. Together, let’s build stronger communities through service, compassion, and unity,” she stressed
Earlier, the Chairman of the Investiture Committee, Rotarian Yusuf Alli, in his welcome address described the event as both historic and purposeful.
“Rotary is about service. We act without borders, impacting lives we may never meet. As we begin a new Rotary year under the theme Unite for Good, let us recommit to our purpose.
“Our new District Governor has already unveiled a N150 million programme focusing on maternal and child health, peace-building, polio eradication, and community empowerment.
“We urge everyone here to contribute, no matter how small. Rotary remains one of the most transparent platforms for service globally, Alli said.
Represented by the Deputy Chairman of the committee, Alli commended the committee members, sponsors, and donors who supported the event and encouraged continued support for Dr. Okoro’s ambitious plans.
“Today is not only a celebration but a reflection on the values and responsibilities we share as Rotarians.
“We act without borders, impacting lives we may never meet. With the theme ‘Unite for Good’, let us recommit to service,” added
Okoro succeeded District Governor Mike Ukachi Nwanoshiri, the pioneer leader of the young District 9127.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to members in recognition of their outstanding contributions to humanity over the past year.