The 2024 National World Polio Day Celebration in Port Harcourt, hosted by Rotary International District 9141 Nigeria, was a vibrant and inspiring three-day event that brought together Rotarians, Rotaractors, and friends of Rotary to reaffirm their commitment to a polio-free world. The event showcased a seamless blend of advocacy, awareness, and fundraising activities, highlighting the collective power of Rotary’s fight against polio.
The celebration began with the thrilling End Polio Now-branded Boat Regatta, which made waves across Port Harcourt’s waters. This visually striking display captivated participants and onlookers alike,
sending a powerful message about Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio. Adding to the
excitement was a bike race, where dedicated riders journeyed from Benin City to Port Harcourt,
symbolizing determination and endurance in the fight against this preventable disease.
As part of the celebration, a new billboard was unveiled, serving as a lasting symbol of Rotary’s
mission to eradicate polio and its commitment to spreading awareness. The polio walk, another key
activity, brought together a diverse group of participants who walked through the streets of Port
Harcourt to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination. Each step taken was a reminder of the progress made and the work that remains in ending polio.
The event concluded with a grand fundraising dinner for the Rotary Foundation, where Rotarians and
guests came together in an atmosphere of generosity and solidarity. The dinner underscored Rotary’s
commitment to raising the necessary resources to sustain the fight against polio.
Among the notable attendees were Rotary leaders, including Nigeria National PolioPlus Committee
members PRIVP Yinka Babalola, PDG Joshua Hassan, PDG Yomi Adewumi, and PDG Kazeem
Mustapha. District Governor Chinedu Ikegwuani, District Secretary Nkeiru Enyia, and Assistant
Governor Chidinma Diala also graced the occasion.
Their presence, alongside Rotarians, Rotaractors, and other supporters, emphasized the unity and
shared purpose driving Rotary’s polio eradication efforts.
This year’s National World Polio Day Celebration was a testament to the unwavering dedication of Rotary International and its partners. Each event, from the regatta to the fundraising dinner, highlighted the importance of collective action in achieving a polio- free world. It was not just a celebration but a call to action, inspiring everyone to continue the journey toward making history.
