President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Olayinka Babalola on his election as President of Rotary International for the 2026/2027 year.
Babalola, a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, Nigeria, was chosen by the Rotary International Board of Directors after SangKoo Yun resigned for health reasons. He will assume office on 1 July 2026.
The Nigerian engineer becomes only the second African to lead the 120-year-old global humanitarian organisation.
President Tinubu described Babalola’s rise as proof of his years of service through the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Rotary International. He noted that the new Rotary International leader had demonstrated commitment to philanthropic work and life-changing projects that foster peace, progress, and human dignity.
According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said Babalola’s election would inspire Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, by showing that with vision, integrity and service, one could earn global recognition and drive meaningful change.
“As you prepare to assume office, you can count on our support and encouragement to continue advancing humanitarian causes, strengthening international partnerships, and promoting the spirit of service to humanity,” Tinubu assured.
Rotary International officially announced Babalola’s election on Thursday in a statement signed by Ibim Semenitari, Rotary Public Image Coordinator for Africa Zone 22, Region 27.
The statement highlighted Babalola’s professional affiliations with the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Institute of Safety Professionals, and the Association of Change Management Practitioners. He also belongs to the Jericho Business Club in Port Harcourt, where he lives with his wife, Preba.
A dedicated Rotarian and philanthropist, Babalola supports The Rotary Foundation through a named endowment and membership of the Arch Klumph Society. He also serves as a trustee of ShelterBox UK and director of the Safe Blood Africa project. His service has earned him several honours, including the Africa Centennial Heroes Award, the RI Service Above Self Award, and the Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service.
Rotary International presidents serve one-year terms, providing leadership, presiding over the Board of Directors, and representing the organisation worldwide. Babalola’s election has been widely celebrated across Nigeria and Africa as another landmark in continental leadership on the global stage.