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The city of Taipei, Taiwan, became the meeting point of hope, service, friendship and global leadership as more than 35,000 Rotarians and Rotaractors from around the world gathered on a “magic island” for the 117th Rotary International Convention held June 13-17, 2026 with the theme “Building Connections in Taipei.”
This marked the second time Taipei hosted the event, the first time being in 1994. Taipei was originally selected for the 2021 convention but was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The annual convention, one of the largest gatherings of volunteer leaders and humanitarian advocates in the world, brought together representatives from more than 200 countries and geographic regions to celebrate Rotary’s enduring mission of “Service Above Self.”
In his opening speech on Sunday 14 June, the outgoing President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo, described Rotary conferences as “powerful moments of unity… to spark new ideas for a healthier and more peaceful future”.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te met with Rotary International leaders and expressed support for the convention’s vision of peace.
All events took place at two main venues: Farglory Dome/Taipei Dome for the opening, closing and general sessions, and Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre/TaiNEX 1 and TaiNEX 2 for the breakout sessions and the House of Friendship.
But beyond the exchange of ideas, friendship and global networking, the Taipei Convention will be remembered for a defining moment in Rotary history: the introduction of Nigerian Rotarian Olayinka Hakeem Babalola onto the world stage as the incoming president of Rotary International for the 2026-2027 Rotary year, beginning July 1, 2026.
Rotarians from all over Africa were dressed in different colors of the same fabric. For Nigerians, our green and white attire, and the miniature Nigerian flags we waved to the delight of other delegates, were part of the “cultural mosaic” that transformed the magnificent Taipei Dome.
It was truly a moment of pride, meaning and inspiration for Nigeria, Africa and the global Rotary family.
Taipei: where tradition meets global service
The 2026 Rotary International Convention was hosted in the vibrant city of Taipei, a destination renowned for blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge innovation and home to semiconductors. Delegates gathered at the iconic Taipei Dome and Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre, participating in plenary sessions, leadership forums, exhibitions, cultural showcases and networking events designed to foster global collaboration and understanding.
The conference served as a stark reminder that Rotary remains one of the most influential humanitarian organizations in the world. Through projects focused on peacebuilding, education, disease prevention, environmental sustainability, maternal and child health, economic empowerment, and community development, Rotary continues to impact millions of lives around the world.
During the five-day meeting, delegates exchanged ideas, built great connections, celebrated successful projects and explored innovative solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. The atmosphere reflected Rotary’s unique ability to unite people of different cultures, professions, and backgrounds around a common purpose: to make the world a better place.
A Nigerian takes center stage
One of the most memorable moments of the convention was the official introduction of Olayinka Hakeem Babalola as the incoming president of Rotary International for 2026-2027. This happened on the last day of the convention’s general closing session between 3pm and 5pm local time, when Babalola introduced his family: his wife Percy; Mother, 83 years old, two daughters, son and sister-in-law – after being introduced by the outgoing President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo.
As delegates from around the world watched, Babalola was introduced as the leader who would lead the organization into a new chapter starting July 1, 2026. His appearance represents not only a personal achievement, but also recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence within Rotary’s global leadership. We also have another Nigerian, Pearl Ijeoma Okoro, who is a four-year Rotary Foundation trustee (2024-2028).
A member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi in Rivers State, Nigeria, Babalola has dedicated decades of service to Rotary. His leadership journey has included serving as district governor, vice president of Rotary International, and member of the Rotary International Board of Directors. He also played a significant role in Rotary’s global efforts to eradicate polio and strengthen community development initiatives.
His presentation in Taipei symbolized more than a leadership transition: it represented the growing global relevance of African leadership in shaping international development conversations and humanitarian action.
A historic milestone for Africa
Babalola’s rise to the presidency is particularly significant because he becomes only the second African to lead Rotary International. The first was Nigerian Rotarian Jonathan Majiyagbe, president of Rotary International in 2003-2004. More than two decades later, another Nigerian has risen to Rotary’s highest office, reaffirming Nigeria’s long-standing contribution to global service and leadership.
His election was widely celebrated in Rotary districts in Africa and beyond. For many African Rotarians and Rotaractors, it serves as proof that dedication, expertise and service can gain recognition on the highest global platforms.
Beyond Rotary circles, the development also resonates with broader conversations about African representation in international institutions. Babalola’s emergence demonstrates that African professionals and leaders continue to gain prominence in organizations shaping global humanitarian and development agendas.
The message of “Creating Lasting Impact”
As incoming president, Babalola has articulated a vision focused on sustainable change and measurable results. Earlier this year, he unveiled his presidential message: “Create a lasting impact.”
The message encourages Rotary members around the world to move beyond short-term interventions and embrace initiatives that create lasting benefits for communities. It emphasizes leadership, innovation, partnership and responsibility as essential ingredients for sustainable development.
Babalola says “change” is good, but “impact that lasts” is better. The theme is closely aligned with contemporary global challenges. Communities today require solutions that address root causes rather than temporary symptoms. Whether addressing poverty, illiteracy, health disparities, or environmental concerns, Rotary’s future direction under Babalola’s leadership should focus on transformative impact.
For many delegates in Taipei, the theme had a profound resonance because it reflects Rotary’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world.
The moment of soft power in Nigeria
Babalola’s presentation in Taipei also highlighted the importance of soft power diplomacy in international relations.
Nigeria is often discussed in global conversations through the lenses of population, entrepreneurship, entertainment, sports and economic potential. However, leadership positions within respected global organizations provide another avenue through which nations build influence, prestige, and credibility.
Babalola’s emergence offers a positive narrative on Nigeria’s excellence, integrity and global citizenship. It showcases the country’s ability to produce leaders who command international respect and can unite people across cultural and national borders.
For younger Nigerians, especially those involved in service organizations, volunteerism and community development, its findings provide a compelling example of how local service can have a global impact. Babalola was a Rotaractor.
The continued relevance of Rotary
The Taipei Convention also highlighted Rotary’s enduring relevance in an increasingly interconnected world.
Despite technological advances and geopolitical tensions, the need for trusted networks that foster dialogue, friendship and cooperation remains critical. Rotary continues to fill this role by bringing together people committed to service and peacebuilding.
The organization’s historic commitment to eradicating polio, its support of education and healthcare, and its growing emphasis on environmental sustainability demonstrate its ability to adapt to changing global realities while remaining true to its founding values.
At the end of the convention, delegates left Taipei, bringing with them new ideas, renewed motivation, and stronger international ties.
Olayinka Babalola assumes office
When Olayinka Hakeem Babalola officially assumes office on July 1, 2026, he will inherit the responsibility of leading one of the world’s most respected humanitarian service and friendship organizations. His presidency comes at a time when communities around the world are seeking hope, collaboration and practical solutions to shared challenges.
For Nigeria, his leadership marks a proud chapter in the nation’s engagement with global institutions. For Africa, it represents another milestone in the continent’s growing influence. For Rotary International, it means continuity, renewal and a commitment to creating lasting impact.
The 2026 Rotary International Convention in Taipei will therefore be remembered not only for its inspiring discussions and international friendship, but also as the occasion when the global Rotary family welcomed a Nigerian leader into its highest office and celebrated a vision of service capable of transforming communities around the world.
As the delegates returned home from Taipei, one message remained clear: Service knows no borders, leadership knows no nationality, and through Rotary, ordinary people continue to have an extraordinary impact.
*Braimah attended the Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan. He is the designated District Governor-Designate (DGND) of District 9112, a Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Strategist and Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Naija Times (www.ntm.ng) and Lagos Post (www.lagospost.ng). It can be reached at [email protected]
