The District Governor of Lions Clubs International, District 404B4, Pharmacist Adebowale Afolayan, has expressed concern over insecurity in Northern Nigeria, which, according to him, is hindering humanitarian efforts and forcing the shutdown of service clubs in the region.
Speaking with journalists in Abeokuta during the charter presentation of Abeokuta Premium Lions Club, Afolayan revealed that several Lions Clubs in the North have ceased operations due to persistent security challenges.
According to him, the unstable security situation has made it impossible for members to access certain communities in need of critical support.
“We pray and ask them (the government) to continue to give us peace because there are places we want to reach but cannot access. In the North, many of our clubs have folded up because of insecurity,” he said.
Afolayan emphasized that restoring peace is essential for humanitarian organisations to function effectively and extend services to underserved populations.
He noted that while the organisation remains committed to its mission of service, insecurity continues to limit its reach.
Despite these challenges, he said the Lions Club is expanding in safer regions as part of a broader strategy to sustain its impact.
He highlighted ongoing interventions in healthcare and community development, including projects at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
“Our work is driven by service to humanity, but we need a safe environment to operate fully. We look forward to a time when peace will allow us to return to affected areas and continue our work,” Afolayan added.
He called on authorities and stakeholders to prioritise security, stressing that humanitarian development depends heavily on a stable and peaceful environment.
The new Charter President of the Abeokuta Premium Lions Club, Lion Shafih Amusa, in his acceptance speech, pledged the Club’s dedication to service and collaboration with public institutions
“Service to humanity remains the heartbeat of Lions Clubs International,” Amusa said. “With a clear agenda and structured programmes, we are poised to support government initiatives and drive sustainable community development.”
He called for stronger synergy between government and humanitarian organisations, arguing that meaningful progress is best achieved through partnership.
Amusa also urged public authorities to prioritise citizens’ welfare by addressing unemployment, ensuring prompt payment of pensions, and investing in social safety nets.
“When we work together, we can build a safer, more inclusive society,” he said. “That is the path to a brighter Nigeria.”