Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole urges Nigerians to embrace selfless giving at the Rotary Foundation 120th anniversary celebration in Lagos

Former Lagos commissioner and Colenson Group founder, **Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole**, has called on Nigerians to make a positive global impact through selfless giving.

He made this appeal during his opening remarks at **The Rotary Foundation Dinner & Dance**, held at the Civic Centre, Lagos, to commemorate **Rotary International’s 120th anniversary**.

Olawale-Cole commended **Rotary International** for its humanitarian initiatives, describing it as a beacon of **hope, kindness, and compassion**.

He acknowledged Rotary’s far-reaching impact, highlighting the millions of lives transformed through its service projects.

Speaking at the event, **Rotary District 9112 Governor** and Afem Publishers Managing Director/CEO, **Rotarian Olufemi Adenekan**, expressed deep appreciation to donors for their unwavering support.

He emphasised the foundation’s role in addressing global challenges and improving communities worldwide since its establishment in **1917**.

Chairman of the event’s planning committee and past president of the Rotary Club of Victoria Garden City, **Rotarian Omotunde Olaleye**, urged attendees to continue supporting Rotary’s core mission. He reinforced Rotary’s commitment to:

– **Promoting peace**
– **Fighting diseases**
– **Providing clean water**
– **Saving mothers and children**
– **Enhancing education**

“Your contributions help us **empower communities, foster global understanding, improve health outcomes, and create educational opportunities**,” Olaleye stated.

Themed **”Rotary Foundation: The Heart of Giving,”** the event featured vibrant **cultural performances, entertainment, and networking opportunities**.

A key highlight of the night was the **Humanitarian Awards**, recognising outstanding Nigerians for their philanthropic efforts.

Honourees included:

– **Asiwaju Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole**
– **Olori Amb. (Dr.) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi**
– **Elder Urum Kalu Eke**
– **Anthony & Pharm. Silvia Onwuere**
– **Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (Chairman, SIFAX Group)**

Additional awardees were **Seni Adetu (former Guinness Nigeria MD, CEO of Algorithm Media), Chief (Mrs.) Maria Phillips, Basorun Peter Ogunbayo, Dr. Augustine Onwumere, and Michael Ikenga (CEO, ITStack Limited).**

Since its inception with an initial donation of **$26.50** by the **Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri**, The Rotary Foundation has grown into one of the **world’s largest humanitarian organisations**.

Its mission remains to **advance goodwill, peace, and global development** through impactful service projects.