Sunday Akere inaugurated as pioneer district gov of Lions Club International

Chief Sunday Akere was on Saturday inaugurated as the pioneer District Governor of Lions Club International District 404-B6, with a pledge to expand humanitarian services to underserved communities in Osun and beyond.

The inauguration, held in Osogbo, also launched a fundraising drive to raise N250 million for the district’s “Lion House and Food Bank Project” — an initiative designed to provide food relief and welfare support for vulnerable people.

In his acceptance speech, Akere outlined a seven-point agenda for his service year, focusing on vision care, paediatric cancer, diabetes, environmental protection, youth development, hunger and disaster relief, and mental health awareness.

“My administration will run an open and accessible style of government. Transparency and accountability will be our watchword. The welfare of all members will remain our priority,” Akere said.

He added that he would work to achieve the association’s “Mission 1.5” goal, produce better Lions and strengthen collaboration with governments at all levels and other partners.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of the South West Development Commission, Dr Charles Akinola, commended Lions Club for its decades of compassionate service and described it as a critical complement to government efforts.

“Where policies are made, service organisations like Lions Club bring them to life for the benefit of the people. Today’s fundraising effort is more than an appeal. It is an investment that transforms lives,” Akinola said.

He assured that the SWDC was ready to partner with the new district leadership to ensure the actualisation of the Lion House and Food Bank Project.

Dignitaries at the event described Akere’s emergence as a call to greater service, noting that voluntary organisations remained vital in bridging gaps left by government.