By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The very essence of leadership is vision and mission. History beckons as the Rotary club of Asaba installed Rotarian Kola-Balogun Florence Ndenwanka as the 42nd President of the club in Asaba, Delta State Capital on 12 July,2025.
Rotarian Kola-Balogun who is also the 3rd female President of the Rotary Club of Asaba cosmopolitan is a serving Coach with Delta State Sports Commission. The Rotary Club of Asaba witnessed a momentous occasion as it ushered in a new era of service and impact with the installation of Rotarian Kola-Balogun Florence Ndenwanka.
The event which took place at Enotel events hall on the 12th of July, 2025, in Asaba, drew a distinguished gathering of Rotarians from across Districts, dignitaries, and well-wishers to the Delta State capital of Asaba.
Amidst an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared purpose, Rotarian Kola-Balogun, a figure known for her dedication and vision, took the helm, promising a year brimming with transformative initiatives and impactful community engagement. The “Year of Unite for Good” Rotarian Kola-Balogun said will signify a commitment to transparency, wonder, and surpassing expectations in service delivery.
“I am deeply humbled by the trust and confidence you have placed in me to serve as the president of our beloved club,” expressed Rotarian Kola-Balogun, her voice resonating with a blend of humility and determination. “As we embark on this magical year, I am reminded of the profound impact we can have on our community and beyond when we come together with sheer purpose and dedication.”
Central to her leadership approach, Rotarian Kola-Balogun unveiled her focus areas as the 42nd President for the 2025/26 Rotary year, Rotarian Kola-Balogun, disclosed that her tenure will focus on the following areas: Peace and Conflict resolution, Diseases prevention and control, Economic and Community Development, Basic Education and Literacy, Maternal and Child Care, Water and Sanitation, and Protection of the Environment.
She however called for partnership and support from government, corporate bodies and individuals in the delivery of these projects.
She added, “We have done the need assessment of some selected communities and schools in Delta State communities as well as the costing. We now need to go back to implement. We need more partnership with the Rotary in the delivery of these projects by providing materials for these projects or financing them.
“Rotary has always been about creating magic in people’s lives,” Rotarian Kola-Balogun passionately declared. “Whether it’s through our service projects or commitment to peace and understanding, or our effort to make the world a better place. As president, I promise to dedicate my time, talent, and treasure to the noble cause of Rotary.”
The installation ceremony was not merely a changing of the guard; it served as a platform to recognize and celebrate the unwavering commitment of individuals like Pastor Idowu Okeze, Engr. Kingsley Okafor and others who have consistently embodied the Rotary spirit. Deserving personalities and Rotarians were honored with awards of recognition, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to Rotary International and their unwavering dedication to humanitarian service.
Rotarian Peter Meka, who played a pivotal role as the installation chairman, expressed his satisfaction with the seamless execution of the event and offered words of guidance to the newly installed president.
“When I was made the installation chairman, I said I was going to put in my best and we succeeded, my expectations were surpassed by our performances,” stated Rotarian Meka. “I will counsel the current president, Rotarian Kola-Balogun, that she should act accordingly with the confines and Constitution of Rotary, which I know she is going to do.”
Echoing the sentiment of continued support, the Immediate Past President, Rotarian(Dr) Iwelu Henry ,expressed his confidence in Rotarian Kola-Balogun’s leadership.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank the club, my family and the community for all we achieved this past year and I want to assure the new president that I’m going to give her all the needed support she would ever want from me,” assured Rotarian Okafor. I hope that with God by our side we are going to exceed expectations and perform the magic Rotary has been known for all through the years.”
The installation ceremony of Rotarian Kola-Balogun Florence Ndenwanka as the 42nd President of the Rotary Club of Asaba Urban marked the beginning of a promising chapter in the club’s history. With a clear vision, a dedicated team, and the unwavering support of the community, the “Year of Magic” promises to be a testament to the transformative power of Rotary.