The Inner Wheel Clubs of Nigeria marked a historic milestone with the successful hosting of its 38th Annual National Conference and Rally, which also featured the First Pan-African Inner Wheel Forum.
The event, themed “Incredible Lagos”, took place from February 6 to 9, 2025, at The Orchid Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.
The landmark gathering brought together delegates from all six Inner Wheel Districts in Nigeria as well as representatives from Uganda, Cameroon, Benin, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at fostering collaboration among Inner Wheel members across Africa.
Strengthening Inner Wheel’s Presence in Africa
The Forum was convened by National Representative and President of the Council of Inner Wheel Clubs in Nigeria, Karin Uwaje, alongside Past International Inner Wheel President (PIIWP) Oluyemisi Alatise. In their addresses, they emphasized the importance of strategic growth and collaboration in expanding Inner Wheel’s impact across the continent.
“African Inner Wheel leaders must come together to synergize, collaborate, and strategize on the future of Inner Wheel in Africa,” they stated.
Goodwill messages were delivered by International Inner Wheel (IIW) President, Mamta Gupta, and other dignitaries, highlighting Africa’s growing role in Inner Wheel’s global expansion.
Community Impact and Key Highlights
The event was not just a conference but also a platform for humanitarian service, reflecting Inner Wheel’s core mission. Key highlights included:
• Community Service Project: A special outreach program was conducted to support the local community as part of Inner Wheel’s commitment to capacity-building and social impact.
• Keynote Speech by Bekeme Olowola: The Chief Executive of CSR-in-Action delivered an insightful speech on “The Legacy of Humanitarian Service”, emphasizing the long-term impact of kindness and philanthropy.
• Wheelchair Donations: 12 wheelchairs, donated by PDC Barbara Von Saldern from District 85, Germany, were distributed across Nigeria’s six Inner Wheel Districts.
• Walking Frame Presentation: A walking frame, courtesy of Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, was awarded to District 916 through a lucky dip.
• Business Session: Discussions focused on growth and sustainability of Inner Wheel in Nigeria and Africa.
• Award Ceremony: Corporate and individual contributors to charity and national development were recognized for their outstanding efforts.
According to National Representative Karin Uwaje, the award ceremony also served as a fundraising initiative to expand Inner Wheel’s Micro Credit Schemes, which have been instrumental in supporting vulnerable communities.
Key Resolutions and Future Plans
The conference concluded with several strategic resolutions to further strengthen Inner Wheel’s operations in Nigeria and Africa:
• Expansion of the Microcredit Loan Scheme to enhance economic empowerment across Inner Wheel Districts in Nigeria, with plans for replication in participating African countries.
• Ratification of Nigeria’s Nominees for International Inner Wheel (IIW) Offices (2025/2026):
• IIW Vice President Nominee: PBD Ranti-Adetuberu
• IIW Board Director Nominee: PNR Ezimma Nnabuife
• Ratification of IIW Offices for 2026/2027:
• IIW Treasurer Nominee: PBD Bimbo Sowade
• IIW Board Director Nominee: NR Karin Uwaje
• Implementation of Electronic Voting System for future elections to enhance transparency and participation.
• Ratification of the New National Governing Body (NGB) and Executives for the 2025/2026 Inner Wheel Year.
• Revision of By-Laws, including a review of financial allocations for rallies and the introduction of Mandatory Officer Training (MOT) to strengthen club leadership.
• Launch of the Rebranded Inner Wheel Nigeria Website to improve communication, visibility, and service delivery.
• Recognition of Five Newly Chartered Clubs (Two in District 911 and Three in District 912).
• Formation of a Constitution Amendment Proposal Committee to review and submit proposed amendments by September 2025.
• Endorsement of Nigeria’s participation in the 2027 International Inner Wheel Convention in Manila, following the successful engagement at the Manchester Centenary Convention.
Pan-African Collaboration and Future Events
Delegates from across Africa praised the initiative and called for the replication of similar forums in their respective countries to strengthen Inner Wheel’s footprint on the continent.
Upcoming events announced include:
• Women for Africa (WFA) Event in Enugu – November 2025
• 39th National Rally in Ede, Osun State – 2026
A Landmark Event for Inner Wheel in Africa
With over 509 delegates in attendance, the 38th Annual National Conference and First Pan-African Inner Wheel Forum has set a precedent for regional collaboration and impact-driven initiatives.
