Rotary Club Of Kaduna Gets New President

Rotary Club Of Kaduna Gets New President

Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna Northwest Nigeria

It was a moment of fulfilment and blessings for members of Rotary club Kaduna who gathered to witness the change of baton between immediate past President Rotarian Portia Stephanie Aji and the newly elected President Rotarian Ahmad Tijani which took place in Kaduna.

The exchange of baton marks the ushering in of the newly elected President. The close of one Rotary year and the dawn of another.

In her handover speech, president Rotarian Portia thanked every member of the club for the support accorded her during her tenure which made it possible for her achievements.

She encouraged them to extend same cooperation and support to the newly elected President, Rotarian Ahmad Tijani whom she described as capable to steer the mantle of leadership.

Rotarian Portia speaking,

“Today is not just a handover of leadership; it is a celebration of collective commitment and enduring friendships. I welcome you all—fellow Rotarians, families, friends, and dignitaries—for taking the time to be with us. Your presence today is a testament to your support for Rotary ideals.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude and pride that I stand before you today as the outgoing President of the Rotary Club of Kaduna. What a journey it has been! Over the past one year, we have worked together to create hope in the world—true to the Rotary spirit—through service projects, fellowships, outreach programs, and community impact.

To my fellow club members—thank you. Your dedication made our year a success. From health outreaches to youth empowerment, from environmental initiatives to professional development, every effort counted. We didn’t just plan; we acted. We didn’t just talk; we delivered.

“As I prepare to pass the baton to the incoming President, Rtn. Ahmed Tijjani, I do so with confidence and joy, knowing that the club is in capable and visionary hands. Leadership in Rotary is not about titles, but about service—and I am certain that our new President will steer this ship even further.

So once again, I say a very warm welcome to each and every one of you.

The newly elected President, Rotarian Ahmad Tijani in his response thanked the Rotary Board and Club members for deeming him fit to lead the club.

Though a difficult task it is, he seek the support of everyone to succeed in the task ahead.

“It is indeed an uphill task but with the anticipated resounding support from Club Members, other Rotarians, family and friends, I believe we shall succeed to the best of our ability.

I am reminded of the Rotary International Motto which emphasizes the importance of service above self. I promise to uphold this principle as a servant leader and work with each and every one to collectively make positive impact in our community.

He enumerated some of his plans for the 2025/26 year.

“During my term as President, we intend to raise funds from friends and partners in order to achieve making real impact without burdening the pockets of members. We would try to raise enough funds that we can equally leave in the purse of RC Kaduna for our subsequent club leaders to carry on from where we will be able to stop from.

Rotarian Tijani appreciated the outgone president, Portia Stephanie Aji for her successes and achievements during her tenure and wished her the best in her new position as District Governor.

“My most profound gratitude to our irresistible Magic President and my Future District Governor, Rtn Portia Stephanie Aji for raising the bar so high and putting RC Kaduna back to the top with her foresight, impactful projects, teamwork and most importantly, her style of leadership.

Her style of leadership has been inspiring to him, he stressed.

It is indeed an honour serving and learning closely under you, My President, as you have provided us with the right leadership and legacy to build upon.

President Rotarian Tijani also recognised contributions of all Past Club leaders who he said laid the foundation and built the bridge that has made it possible for the crossing over exercise.

Tijani enjoined fellow Rotarians to share ideas and participate in projects and activities for the success of the club.  According to him, “one tree does not make a forest. I assure you of my commitment and listening ear as we seek your guidance and support.”

Amongst listed 2025-2026 club goals are,

The carrying out of service projects through 7 Areas of Focus: (continuous projects and new ideas)

Donation of antenatal and postnatal kits to 200 women at Primary Health Centre, Mando.

Donation of Mammogram Machine to ABUTH and renovation of classroom and school toilets, provision of desks, stocking of school library among others.

President Rotarian Ahmad Tijani is the 61st president of Rotary Club of Kaduna.

The Chairman of the occasion, Barrister Sani  a Senior advocate of Nigeria pledged his support to the club. He congratulated them for their humanitarian services and wished the new president a successful year of service.