ROTARIANS, Rotaractors and friends of Rotary across District 9127 are set to roll out the red carpet for the President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo, and his spouse, Anna Maria Arezzo-Criscione, as they arrive in Abuja on Tuesday, February 17, for the final leg of their Nigeria-wide tour.
News Point Nigeria reports that President Arezzo, who arrived in Lagos on February 13th and has since engaged with Rotary stakeholders in different parts of the country, will fly into Abuja from Port Harcourt to a colourful, carnival-like welcome at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
In a statement signed by Dr. Max Amuchie, District 9127 Media Relations Chair, the Chairman of the Reception Planning Committee, Dr. Goddy Nnadi, disclosed that elaborate arrangements have been concluded to accord the Rotary leader a befitting reception.
“Rotarians adorned in Rotary regalia, alongside cultural dance troupes, will be on ground to receive President Arezzo and his entourage in a vibrant display that reflects the warmth and hospitality of our district,” he said.
Among those expected in the presidential entourage are Rotary International President-elect Rotarian Yinka Babalola and his spouse, Preba Babalola; Trustee of The Rotary Foundation, Rotarian Ijeoma Pearl Okoro and her husband, Rotarian Kingsley Okoro; as well as the other five District Governors in Nigeria.
District Governor Dame (Dr.) Joy Okoro, host of the visit, expressed excitement at welcoming the global Rotary leader. She noted that the entire District 9127 family has mobilised to ensure a memorable and impactful visit. “We are honoured to receive President Arezzo in Abuja. This visit underscores Rotary’s commitment to service, peacebuilding and disease eradication, and we are fully prepared to showcase the impactful work of our district,” she said.
Following airport formalities, President Arezzo is scheduled for a private dinner later in the evening with philanthropist and Rotary leader, Sir Emeka Offor.
On Wednesday, the Rotary International President will visit Polio House in Area 2, Abuja, where he will address the press and receive a comprehensive briefing from the Nigerian National PolioPlus Committee (NNPPC) on the country’s polio eradication efforts. He will subsequently proceed to a Primary Healthcare Centre in Area 2 to participate in a symbolic polio immunisation exercise, reinforcing Rotary’s decades-long commitment to eradicating polio worldwide.
At noon, President Arezzo will address Rotarians of District 9127 at the Sir Emeka Offor Hall, Rotary Centre, Abuja, where he is expected to outline Rotary International’s vision, priorities and strategic direction. The visit will also include a courtesy call on President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, further strengthening collaboration between Rotary and government in advancing humanitarian and development initiatives.
President Arezzo will depart Nigeria on Thursday, February 19, marking the conclusion of a significant tour aimed at deepening Rotary’s impact and partnerships across the country.
District 9127, which covers the Federal Capital Territory and several states in North-Central Nigeria, continues to play a leading role in Rotary’s service areas, including disease prevention and treatment, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, economic empowerment, and peacebuilding.
