The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) on Monday hosted the Rotary Club of Ota in a landmark event that marked Nigeria’s first-ever Rotary fellowship held aboard a moving train — a bold and innovative approach to civic engagement and humanitarian service.

The historic fellowship brought together Rotarians for fellowship, leadership interaction, and strategic discussions focused on service to humanity, climate action, and sustainable community development — all while in transit. The initiative set a new benchmark for creative engagement and demonstrated how unconventional platforms can be leveraged for impact.

The fellowship was led by the President of the Rotary Club of Ota, Mr. Charles Umukoro, alongside members of the club’s executive and general membership. Among distinguished officers present were Vice President Bisi Seleso; Pioneer President Olumide Adebiyi; Treasurer Olumide Omotola; President-Elect Fatai Wasi; and the club’s doyen and longest-serving member, Dr. Kele Abolaji, among other notable Rotarians.

A major highlight of the occasion was the onboard visit by the Railway District Manager, Engr. Rasheed Adedeji, who warmly received the Rotarians. His presence underscored the significance of the event and further strengthened the cordial relationship between the NRC and the Rotary Club of Ota.

In a symbolic gesture reflecting shared values of service and partnership, Adedeji was formally inducted as a member of the Rotary Club of Ota following his welcome address, deepening institutional collaboration between both organisations.

Beyond its historic setting, the fellowship reinforced Rotary’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action. As part of this commitment, the club commenced a large-scale tree-planting exercise on February 28, 2026, aimed at contributing meaningfully to climate change mitigation and environmental protection within host communities.

The moving-train fellowship was widely described as symbolic of progress, innovation, and forward momentum — values that align closely with the transformation agenda of the Nigerian Railway Corporation. With this pioneering initiative and the launch of its environmental intervention, the Rotary Club of Ota has positioned itself as a trailblaser, redefining how fellowship, service, and impact can be creatively achieved in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote national development, environmental sustainability, and community advancement, while showcasing the railway as a safe, modern, and strategic platform for engagement.

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By Pearl Ngwama

Pearl Ngwama is a prominent Nigerian media professional, an advocate of Nigeria Transport Sector development and Managing Director of JustAlive Communications Ltd, publishers of JustNet News. She is the convener of the annual Nigeria Transport Summit.

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