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In a powerful demonstration of service and solidarity, the Rotary Club of Abuja Sapphire has unveiled a landmark community development initiative aimed at improving sanitation and education in Damangaza, a community within Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.

The announcement was made by Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Oramah, President of the Rotary Club of Abuja Sapphire, during a press conference in the FCT, also spotlighting Rotary’s enduring global mission to eradicate polio.

Speaking to a gathering of Rotarian and journalists, Dr. Oramah emphasized the dual focus of the club’s current efforts: the global fight against polio and the urgent local needs of schoolchildren in Damangaza. “It is my honour to stand before you today as we unveil this important community project—a tangible expression of Rotary’s commitment to service above self and to the dignity and wellbeing of every child in our adopted community,” he declared.

A Renewed Push for Polio Eradication

The event coincides with World Polio Month, a period of heightened awareness and action across Rotary International. Dr. Oramah announced two major events to be hosted by the club: a community gathering at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja on October 17, 2025, and the Rotary Polio Day celebration on October 24, 2025. Both events will be led by District Governor DAME (Dr.) PRINCESS JOY NKY OKORO and are part of District 9127’s broader campaign to eliminate polio from Nigeria and the world.

“We are reminded that the world stands on the brink of history: polio is down by more than 99% approximately since Rotary began its campaign, yet a few lingering cases mean our work is not finished,” Dr. Oramah stated. He reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to vaccination, surveillance, and survivor support, noting that “Rotary will also provide wheelchairs and assistive devices for polio survivors and persons with disabilities—practical help that restores mobility, dignity and opportunity.”

Addressing Local Needs: Sanitation and Education

Beyond the global health agenda, the Rotary Club Sapphire Abuja is taking decisive action to address pressing local challenges in Damangaza. Following a fact-finding mission, the club identified two critical areas for intervention: safe sanitation and adequate classroom furniture.

“Clean, functioning conveniences are not a luxury; they are essential to the health, attendance and dignity of school children,” Dr. Oramah explained. The club’s WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiative aims to install proper sanitation facilities in schools, reducing disease and improving hygiene practices.

“This intervention yields immediate health benefits and long-term educational gains: fewer absences, better concentration, and a safer school environment for all,” he added.

Equally urgent is the need for desks and chairs in classrooms where children currently sit on the floor or share limited seating. “Learning is hindered when children are uncomfortable, cramped, or unable to write properly,” Dr. Oramah said. “Our provision of desks and chairs is more than furniture; it is an intervention which is in line with the provision of basic education focus of Rotary.”

A Holistic Vision for Community Empowerment

The Rotary Club’s approach is rooted in holistic community care, combining health, education, and inclusion. “Healthy children learn better. Comfortable, respectful learning spaces keep children in school,” Dr. Oramah emphasized. These efforts reflect Rotary’s broader promise to “listen, to learn, and to act on the priorities of that community.”

Dr. Oramah also stressed the importance of partnerships in sustaining these initiatives. “None of this is possible without partnership. To the school leaders, parents, community volunteers, local authorities, and my fellow Rotarians—thank you. Your collaboration turns plans into projects and projects into enduring change.”

Looking Ahead

As the club prepares for its upcoming events and continues its work in Damangaza, Dr. Oramah called on all stakeholders to remain engaged. “Maintain the facilities we provide, support immunization and disability inclusion efforts, and continue to champion the education and health of our children,” he urged.

He concluded with a stirring call to action: “This month’s event is not an end but a step—a step toward healthier schools, better learning, and a polio-free world. Together, we can and will create brighter, safer futures for the children of this community and beyond.”

Present at the press conference were some members of the Rotary Club of Abuja Sapphire, including the Immediate Past President, Rotarian Barr. Obiananma Anne Onwukeme and the club’s Polio Chairman, Rotarian Marcel Ezenwa.

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