By Bliss Blessing Chukwuma
Rotarian Nene Sokaribo Iyalla PHF+2 was installed as the president of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South on the 6th of August, 2023 for the Rotary year of 2023-2024 in the city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Seasoned Administrator, Rotarian Nene Sokaribo Iyalla (nee tariah) was born on the 30th of April so many Rotary years ago into the family of Mr and Mrs Kenneth Davidson Bilaye-Tariah of Amatoru polo in Tariah group of houses Buguma City, Rivers State.
She attended Banham Memorial Primary School, Port Harcourt and concluded her secondary schooling at the Bodo City Secondary School at Bodo, Gokhana LGA. Rivers State. She obtained a Diploma in secretarial studies then Bachelor of Science in Public Administration both from the University of Port Harcourt.
Rtn. Nene joined the Research and Development Division of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation where she worked as an Administrator and retired meritoriously after 35years of service in 2018. After which she ventured into business and opened her own business known as Pritonay and Sons Enterprise.
Rtn. Nene Sokaribo Iyalla is a fellow, Institute of Corporate Administration and a member Institute of Chartered Mediation and Conciliation. And she served in the following capacities: Treasurer National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) 1989-1991. NNPC R&D Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN ) as the chapter Assistant Secretary 2003-2009.
Branch Treasurer, NNPC Corporate Headquarters(PENGASSAN) 2012-2015.
In her Local Church Rotarian Nene is a member of the Mother’s Union, she has been voted as Treasurer/People’s Warden multiple times up till date. She is a matron of the Boys Brigade, a Matron Children of Good Shepherd and the Harvest Group Leader for over ten(10) years.
Rtn. Nene joined Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South in 2013 and she became a Paul Harris Fellow-PHF in 2014. Nene has been consistent in handling the responsibilities of the club since she joined Rotary. She was Director, Club Service 2014-2015, Director Rotary Foundation 2015-2016, Treasurer 2010-2017-2021-2022, President Nominee/elect 2022-2023.
Rtn. Nene has received many outstanding awards including Best Rotarian of the year 2021-2022. Rtn Nene is happily married to sir, Alabo, Engr. S. F. Awusin–Yellowe and they are blessed with 3 lovely children and 2 grandchildren.
The Installation of Nene as the 41ST President of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South was a highly anticipated event, gathering prominent figures from various field in the community.
The Charismatic Nene was the woman of the hour, chosen not only for her outstanding dedication for service to humanity but also for her magnetic personality.
As the clock struck 12noon, the hall buzzed with excitement, as the Room transformed into a Kaleidoscope of colorful attires, smiles and laughter. Guests gradually took their seats while the aroma of delicious local Rivers delicacies and other Nigerian dishes floated through the air.
Amongst the distinguished guests was the District Governor Nominee-Anthony Osaretin a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, second level major Donor and a Benefactor to the Rotary Foundation, a Polio Plus Society Member, he is also a member of Rotary Global History Fellowship (RGHF) group.
A versatile Professional with a Quarter of a decade working experience in the Oil and Gas Industry. A certified member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) and also Certified Mastery of Negotiations from the Prestigious Harvard University.
With a grand entrance, president Nene was warmly welcomed to the podium, her voice booming with confidence and passion, she spoke of her Vision for the Future, where unity and Service would pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
Nene Sokaribo Iyalla commenced her speech, recounting her humble beginnings and her early involvement with Rotary. She spoke of the profound impact the Rotary club of Port Harcourt South had on her life, the challenges she encountered and how she overcame them, and how the experiences shaped her into the leader she was today. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, captivating their hearts and inspiring a renewed sense of purpose among those present.
As the evening unfolded, captivating performances ensued, showcasing the vibrant culture and artistic talents of the region. Traditional dancers moved gracefully to the rhythmic beats played by skilled musicians and drummers drawing applause and nods of appreciation.
An awards ceremony followed, acknowledging remarkable individuals who had dedicated their time and resources to serving communities. Faces filled with gratitude and admiration rose to accept their well deserved honors.
Honorary Membership Award were given to some individuals whom has shown love and service to their communities and the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South. Their stories of resilience and compassion ignited a collective spirit of solidarity, further fueling the passion for service within the hearts of the guests.
Towards the end of the event, President Nene Sokaribo Iyalla stepped back onto the stage, with a glimmer of good pride and determination visible in her eyes. “She thanked everyone for gracing the event and pledged to lead with unwavering dedication using the Rotary platform to unite the community and enact tangible change”.
The crowd erupted in a chorus of applause, standing together in unity and support. The Installation of the 41ST President of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South marked the beginning of a new chapter, where collaboration, service, and compassion would illuminate the paths towards a better society.
As the night drew to a close, guests departed with hearts full of hope, eager to join president Nene Sokaribo Iyalla and the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt South on their new journey.
