President Bola Tinubu has called for deeper collaboration between the Federal Government and Rotary International to drive improvements in healthcare, education, youth empowerment and community development across Nigeria.

The President made the call in Abuja during a Presidential Inaugural Ball organised in honour of Mr. Olayinka Babalola, who recently assumed office as President of Rotary International, becoming only the second African and second Nigerian to lead the global humanitarian organisation.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Tinubu described Babalola’s emergence as a historic achievement for Nigeria and Africa, saying it reflects the country's capacity to produce leaders of global relevance and integrity.

He noted that Rotary’s commitment to service, leadership and humanitarian intervention aligns with the objectives of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in healthcare, education, job creation and youth development.

Tinubu commended Rotary’s contributions to the eradication of wild poliovirus in Nigeria and across Africa, describing the organisation’s role in global health campaigns as a model of effective international partnership.

Emphasising that government cannot achieve national transformation alone, the President urged Rotary to strengthen its collaboration with the Federal Government in key areas such as primary healthcare, maternal and child health, literacy, education and skills acquisition.

Speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said solving Nigeria’s social and humanitarian challenges requires collective efforts from government, civil society organisations, professional bodies, businesses and volunteers.

Represented by Sen. Titus Zam, Akpabio described Babalola’s inauguration as a proud moment for the country and the continent, praising Rotary’s long-standing interventions in healthcare, education, disease prevention and access to clean water.

He also urged Nigerians to unite against insecurity, stressing that crime and violence should not be viewed through ethnic, religious or political lenses.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo hailed Babalola’s election as a significant milestone for Africa, noting that it came 22 years after the late Jonathan Majiyagbe became the first African to occupy the position.

According to Obasanjo, the development reflects growing global recognition of African leadership and service. He encouraged Babalola to strengthen Rotary’s impact by promoting ethical leadership, supporting young Rotarians and expanding humanitarian initiatives.

In his inaugural address, Babalola highlighted Rotary’s achievements in Nigeria, particularly in the health sector. He said the organisation’s programmes have shown how strategic partnerships can improve lives and strengthen communities.

He revealed that Rotary’s “Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria” initiative exceeded expectations in pilot states, recording more than a 50 per cent reduction in infant mortality and a 35 per cent decline in maternal deaths.

Babalola also disclosed that Rotary has committed about 8.5 million dollars to health interventions in Kebbi and Akwa Ibom states aimed at combating malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoeal diseases through prevention, education and community engagement.

Recalling a visit to a health facility in Gombe State, he said health workers reported no maternal or infant deaths within a year following Rotary-supported interventions.

He reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to sustaining progress in public health and community development while appreciating the Federal Government for its continued support of the organisation’s humanitarian programmes.

Babalola’s assumption of office marks a historic return of the Rotary International presidency to Nigeria, more than two decades after Majiyagbe’s tenure.