Leadership in global organisations often reflects not only the capabilities of individuals but also the recognition of the regions they represent. For a country like Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of its most dynamic economies, the election of its citizens to helm international bodies is both a mark of national pride and a testament to the talent it nurtures.
Rotary International, a humanitarian service organisation with a membership of over 1.4 million people worldwide, has historically been led by individuals from different continents, but rarely from Africa. This makes the emergence of Nigerians in their highest office particularly significant.
So far, only two Nigerians have had the privilege of being elected as President of Rotary International, the world’s first service club organisation, founded in 1905.
The first, Jonathan Babatunde Majiyagbe, made history in 2003 when he became not only the first Nigerian but the first African ever to occupy the position. Over two decades later, history repeated itself when Olayinka Hakeem “Yinka” Babalola was elected as Rotary International President for the 2026–27 Rotary year, making him the second Nigerian and African to reach this global pedestal.
Their stories, though unique, converge on a common theme: service, leadership, and the elevation of Africa’s voice in global humanitarian efforts. Below, we explore their biographies and why their elections are milestones of global and continental importance.
1. Jonathan Babatunde Majiyagbe (2003–2004)
- Background & Career
A distinguished lawyer, Jonathan Babatunde Majiyagbe earned his law degree from the University of London and was called to the Bar of England & Wales in 1964, later gaining admittance to the Nigerian Bar in 1966. He established his legal practice, JB Majiyagbe & Co, in 1971 and became one of Northern Nigeria’s first Senior Advocates (SAN) in 1980. Known for championing arbitration over litigation, Majiyagbe was also honored with the national title Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). - Rotary Leadership & Contributions
Majiyagbe joined Rotary in 1967 (Rotary Club of Kano) and progressed through various roles, including district governor, Rotary Foundation trustee, and RI Director. As president of Rotary International in 2003–04, he was the first African ever to hold the role. His presidential theme, “Lend a Hand,” emphasised humility, unity, and service, themes that shaped Rotary’s culture. - Legacy & Legacy in Polio Eradication
A staunch advocate in the global fight against polio, Majiyagbe led the Africa Regional PolioPlus Committee and continued as an advisor even after his presidency, helping to guide Nigeria and the continent toward a polio-free status by 2015. - Humanitarian Ethos
Majiyagbe is remembered for fostering inclusivity, placing family at the heart of Rotary, and advocating for women’s admission into Rotary in 1989—preceding the global change in Rotary’s membership policies.
2. Olayinka Hakeem “Yinka” Babalola (President-Elect, 2026–27)
- Leadership Path & Rotary Service
Beginning as a Rotaractor in 1988, Babalola officially joined the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi in 1994. His Rotary trajectory includes: District Governor (2011–12), RI Board Member (2018–20), and Vice President of Rotary International (2019–20). He also has a long-standing commitment to the End Polio Now—Countdown to History Campaign and serves as an adviser to Nigeria’s National PolioPlus Committee. - Professional & Personal Background
Babalola is both an engineer and an attorney, boasting over 25 years of experience with Shell PLC across four continents. He founded Riviera Services Ltd. (an oil and gas infrastructure company) and Lead and Change Consulting (an executive advisory firm). He holds memberships in professional bodies like the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Institute of Safety Professionals. Babalola resides in Port Harcourt with his wife, Preba. - Philanthropy & Recognition
He contributes to Rotary’s Foundation as an Arch Klumph Society member and sponsor of a named endowment. He’s a trustee of ShelterBox UK and directs the Safe Blood Africa initiative. His accolades include the Africa Centennial Heroes Award, RI Service Above Self Award, and Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service. - Historic Significance
Selected by Rotary’s Board after the previous President-Elect resigned, Babalola will be formally inducted on July 1, 2026. He becomes only the second African and second Nigerian to lead Rotary International.
Global Symbolism:
- Their presidencies project African leadership on the world stage, reflecting Rotary’s inclusive evolution and the global capabilities of African Rotarians.
- Both leaders reinforce Rotary’s mission: to promote peace, global understanding, and community service across borders (Wikipedia).
Impact for Africa:
- Majiyagbe’s presidency shattered ceilings, motivating subsequent African engagement in Rotary leadership.
- Babalola’s election further positions Africa as a key contributor to Rotary’s vision, encouraging participation, growth, and representation across the continent.
These two Nigerian Rotary presidents represent milestones in the history of Rotary International. Majiyagbe broke the barrier as the first African to lead the organisation, inspiring generations to come. Babalola follows in his footsteps, bringing fresh energy, expertise, and dedication to global service. Their legacies highlight Nigeria’s and Africa’s enduring contribution to world peace, health, and goodwill through Rotary’s service ethos.
