The Inner Wheel Clubs of Nigeria have held the 39th edition of its Annual Conference and Rally.
Held in the town of Ede, Osun State, the event catalyzed the organization to adopt comprehensive strategic plans aimed at enhancing humanitarian impact, digital transformation, and organizational sustainability.
The conference, themed around the 2025-2026 International Inner Wheel (IIW) vision of “Step Up and Lead by Example,” brought together over 250 delegates from across the country to align local initiatives with global humanitarian standards.
During the intensive business sessions, the National Governing Body (NGB) and district leaders ratified several key resolutions.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Inner Wheel Clubs of Nigeria and made available to Pan-Atlantic Kompass
The statement reads in part: “Resolutions and plans of the Clubs include the following:
“Expansion of the existing Micro- credit loan scheme for improved empowerment of beneficiaries across the districts with the expectation of replication throughout Inner Wheel Africa.
“Ratification of the National Governing Body and Executive for 2026/2027 Inner Wheel Year viz.
“Ratification of Nigeria’s nominee for International Inner Wheel office for Board Director 2027/2028 Nominee NR Funmi Ogunsi.
“Endorsement of the 2 Constitution Amendment Proposals from NIGERIA for debate at the 2027 International Inner Wheel Convention in Manila.
“Endorsement of Nigeria’s participation at the 2027 International Inner Wheel Convention in Manila, Philippines. And ratification of the nomination of the National Coordinator for the same.
“EXPANSION and ATTRACTING YOUNG MEMBERS: It was unanimously concluded that we should make conscious and deliberate efforts to widen our scope of influence and our branding strategies through our social media handles. This is to encourage and attract upwardly mobile and suitably qualified young women to join our club. The options of formation of more E-Clubs should be explored with due diligence.
“RETAINING MEMBERSHIP. Efforts should be made to give every member a sense of belonging and ownership. New members should be assigned positions of responsibility with the necessary support system.”
Another major highlight of the gathering was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Abiola Akiyode Afolabi, founding director of Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC). She challenged women to rewrite the narrative of systemic exclusion from leadership positions and urged them to strive for excellence in their various fields.
Akiyode-Afolabi emphasised that women must be intentional about education, civic participation, and community engagement to dismantle entrenched barriers. According to her, stepping up to lead by example is not optional but “a moral demand.” She encouraged participants to remain resolute in their pursuit of competence and visibility in both public and private spheres.
Some of the members at the conference
The National Representative and President of Council of Inner Wheel Clubs in Nigeria, Funmi Ogunsi, alongside the hosting District Chairman D913, Sola Idowu, and the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Bola Odeleye, welcomed delegates at different sessions of the conference. They commended members for their dedication to humanitarian service and reiterated the need to sustain the organisation’s values.
Goodwill messages were also delivered on behalf of the International Inner Wheel President, Kay Morland, who highlighted the global impact of Inner Wheel and Nigeria’s significant role within the international body.
Beyond speeches and formal sessions, the conference featured a range of humanitarian activities reflecting Inner Wheel’s core values. As part of its Community Service Project, special welfare and medical outreach programmes were organised to support residents of the host community. The interventions focused on enhancing capacity building and promoting wellness, reinforcing the club’s tradition of practical service.
Business sessions formed a critical part of the deliberations. Members engaged in extensive discussions on the growth, sustainability, and continued relevance of Inner Wheel in Nigeria, Africa, and globally. Emphasis was placed on disciplined and focused service delivery, accountability, transparency, probity, and strict adherence to established protocols. Participants agreed on the need to build organisational capacity to meet international standards in the discharge of humanitarian duties.
