Olayinka Hakeem Babalola

Olayinka Hakeem Babalola serves as President of Rotary International for 2026–2027. An engineer, business leader and longtime Rotarian, he brings decades of professional and service experience to Rotary’s highest elected office.

Babalola earned an engineering degree in 1988 and spent more than 25 years in the oil and gas industry, including senior roles with Shell PLC. He later founded an oil and gas infrastructure company and an executive coaching and organizational performance consultancy.

His Rotary journey began through Rotaract, where he served as charter president of his university club. He joined the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi in 1994 and has since served Rotary in numerous leadership roles, including RI director, vice president, and on committees supporting polio eradication and global service.

His service has included helping launch the Safe Blood Africa initiative and supporting polio eradication efforts in Nigeria. As RI president, he is focused on strengthening members’ sense of connection and belonging while encouraging Rotarians around the world to Create Lasting Impact.