It was a sparkling afternoon of elegance and purpose on July 11, 2026, when the Inner Wheel Club of Onipanu in District 911, Lagos, officially welcomed IWM Temitope Alaka as its 10th President for the 2026-2027 year. The induction ceremony took place at The Rotary Centre in Ikeja GRA and doubled as the official launch of the club’s 10th anniversary celebrations alongside a major N20 million fundraising drive.
The day also saw the swearing-in of the new executive team and the induction of four fresh members, some joining from across the country and the diaspora. With the International Inner Wheel theme “Grow and Flourish” setting the tone, the atmosphere captured both celebration and a renewed commitment to service. The event highlighted the club’s decade-long journey of friendship and humanitarian work.
The formal handover from Immediate Past President IWM Olajumoke Ayodele to the new leader stood out as one of the most symbolic moments. IWM Aishah Fapohunda presented a detailed profile of President Temitope Alaka, a nurse, midwife, counsellor, health advocate and strong champion for women’s inclusion and equity. In her acceptance speech, the new president spoke warmly about standing on the foundation laid by the nine leaders before her and outlined plans focused on women’s empowerment, skills acquisition, community outreach and educational support for those in need.
Members and guests turned heads in the anniversary colours of blue and silver, each wearing the specially adopted Sago Jacob gele. Distinguished guests included the 43rd District Chairman IWM Kikelomo Olasoji, International Board Director IWM Karin Uwaje, Her Excellency Alhaja Sikirat Jakande, guest speaker IWM Omolaraeni Adedugbe, and the Mother of the Day, IWM Grace Oluremi Omotosho. The occasion gained extra warmth as it coincided with President Temitope Alaka’s birthday and the 85th birthday of her mother-in-law.
Just days earlier, during the District Chairman’s official visit, the club had already begun living its “Grow and Flourish” theme by empowering two women with an industrial popcorn machine and a food grinding machine. These gestures set the stage for what promises to be a year of expanded impact, deeper community partnerships and continued fellowship as the club marks its milestone anniversary.
