By OLALEKAN AYENI
It was a large turnout of traditional rulers, led by Olota of Ota and paramount ruler of Aworiland, Oba Prof. Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, top government officials, political bigwigs, captain of all industries, Lions and Leos members, yesterday, February 6, 2026, at the second day of ongoing District 404B4 of Lions Clubs International, tagged: 'Kitigbe' held at The Bells University in Ota, Ogun St
The laudable convention established by Lions Clubs International aimed at provided an opportunity for the large humanitarian service providers' group to connect as Lions, learn and most importantly sharing ideas on strengthening humanity services across neighbouring communities globally, was held amidst tight security, visitation to traditional rulers' palacies, get-together night and cultural heritages. It also boosted economic value of the Ado-Odo/Ota Area of the Ogun State as many small scale businesses, transporters and lodging/accommodation practitioners recorded huge patronages.
Declaring the 'Kitigbe' 2026 with the theme: "Creating Endless Possibilities Together" open, the District Governor, Lion Pharmacist Adebowale Afolayan, described the theme as timely and inspiring, noting that the gathering was aimed at strengthening unity, leadership and impact across communities.
Ln Afolayan said the gathering was more than a convention, but a moment to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of Lionism in the District, Nigeria and internationally. "Chosing Ota for this year 2026 convention, tagged: 'Kitigbe' after Abeokuta, Ogbomoso, is to deepen Lions international engagement in projects that will continually benefitting the less-privileges in the ancient city of Aworiland.
"Today we are here to connect as Lions, to learn and, most importantly, to put ideas together on how to continue the service we carry out globally. We are also here to encourage Lions, family members and friends to join us so that we can put our heads together and continue to serve those most in need. This is the third district convention,” he said.
Highlighting some of the humanitarian services undertaken over the past seven months, spanning communities in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states to extensive diabetes screening/care, vision services, pediatric cancer support, working with health institutions including the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Adeoyo Specialist Hospital, and Federal Medical Centres in Abeokuta and Ilaro in providing support for the less-privileged. "Through our vision care programmes, many individuals who were at risk of avoidable blindness can now see clearly and live productive lives,” he said.
"In education, the district has donated books to schools in Ibadan, renovated libraries, and implemented Reading Action Programmes in Ota aimed at improving literacy and leadership development among children." He added
Lion Afolayan acknowledged the support of corporate and institutional partners that have contributed to the success of the convention and district projects, disclosing that the district has engaged government and traditional institutions through courtesy visits to local government authorities, and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, reinforcing collaboration between Lions Club International and public leadership.
He noted that KITIGBE 2026 has designed for leadership developments and to equip members for greater community impact. The convention’s theme reflects Lions Club International’s commitment to collective action and compassion. Every hungry child, every sick patient unable to pay medical bills, and every struggling family is a call to service. As Lions, we will not rest until we create meaningful and lasting change,” he added.
"This district is focusing on deeper connections, leadership development and community impact. After this convention, we are looking forward to greater connections and improved persons through leadership trainings. We want all our members to serve communities more effectively and, most importantly, bringing more hands into the group to serve,” he added.
Jointly speaking, Kabiyesi Obalanlege and representative of Ogun State Deputy Governor, Ln Engr (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele and other dignitaries in their Goodwills applauded Lions Clubs members for their passion in providing enabling assistance for less-privileges in the society. We also commended District 404B4 leadership for holding this globally event in Ota, which they described the town as “the home of hospitality, trades, industries, services growing and developed.
In their jointly advise, the Past Multiple Council Chairperson, Ln Idowu Omolola Anobili and Past District Governor (PGD) TP Waheed Kadiri urged members to upholding the legacy of service, emphasising giving, contribution and responsiveness to emergencies has been the Lions International watchword.
Also speaking, the Convention Committee Chairperson, Chief Jonathan Orepo, said the convention provided a platform to review activities, amend bylaws, fellowship and chart a better future. He urged Lions to double their efforts in service through talent, treasure and time, noting that more members translate to more service, noting that the committee worked tirelessly for five months to deliver a successful event and wished members fruitful deliberations as the district moves forward in its mission of humanitarian service.
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