There is perhaps no greater privilege in the College than witnessing the induction of the new leaders who will carry its values forward. Dr. Ian Doyle, Immediate Past Global President, and his wife, Anne, recently returned from an unforgettable 11-day visit to Nigeria, under ICD Region 34 Western Africa.
Reflecting on the journey, Dr. Doyle described Nigeria as “a country rich in hospitality, culture and professional enthusiasm.” The visit began in Lagos with a gracious welcome from the delegation of Section XX, Region 34. That first evening, the spirit of collaboration was immediately evident during a gathering with local Rotarians, including current and Past District Governors. This meeting served as a productive session to discuss the vital Rotary–ICD dental initiatives currently underway in Owerri.
Celebrating Excellence in Ibadan
From Lagos, the group traveled to Ibadan University, which was in the midst of celebrating the 50th Anniversary of its Faculty of Dentistry. The energy on campus was palpable. Over three productive days of academic sessions, Dr. Doyle had the distinct honor of presiding over a historic convocation where more than 80 new Fellows were inducted into the College.
A significant highlight of the ceremony was the official appointment of Dr. Gbemisola Oke, of Ibadan University, as Regent of Region 34, affirming her leadership role in this dynamic region.
Dr. Doyle was deeply moved by the caliber of the inductees, representing both Ibadan University and Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. He noted: “The dedication and professionalism of these new Fellows were truly inspiring, and the celebrations concluded with a memorable Gala Evening that reflected both pride and unity within the profession.” While in Zaria, Dr. Doyle also seized the opportunity to meet with dental students, exploring future projects that would unite the ICD, Nigerian dental student organizations, and Rotary International in a common cause.
Pictured above are the Section XX, Region 34 Western Africa inductees, leaders and distinguished guests. Royal Father of the Day, the Soun of Ogbomoso, HRM Oba Ghandi Afolabi Oladinni Olaoye is in the center; to the right are Dr. Doyle, Dr. Oke and Region 34 Deputy Regent Dr. Wunmi Fatusi; to the left are Immediate Past Regent Dr. Toks Abiose, Registrar Dr. Bamidele Kolude and Fellow Dr. Module Arowojolu.
Building a Sustainable Future in Owerri
The final leg of the journey was dedicated to turning conversation into action. The group briefly reconvened with colleagues in Abuja to refine their strategy before traveling to Owerri for a critical on-site review. They visited the local hospital and met directly with community stakeholders to assess the needs on the ground.
The focus of this visit was to review plans for a joint project designed to significantly strengthen dental services and oral health outreach in the region. Seeing the commitment from local leaders confirmed Dr. Doyle’s belief in the power of this partnership.“ The collaboration between Rotary and ICD holds great promise for long-term sustainable impact in community dentistry in this area.”
From the academic halls of Ibadan to the clinical facilities in Zaria and the outreach sites in Owerri, this visit offered a powerful perspective on the College’s role in the region. “Our time in Nigeria was a vivid reminder of how service, education and Fellowship unite the global ICD community,” said Dr. Doyle. Region 34 is entering a new era of enthusiastic leadership, and Dr. Doyle returned home to Nova Scotia confident that his Nigerian colleagues will continue to champion the ICD mission of improving oral health in their communities and around the world.
