By Yemisi Suleiman

Rotarian Bukola Olabisi Bakare is the Founder and CEO of Around ‘D’ Clock Security Company Limited. The resilient entrepreneur successfully broke barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry to build a respected business known for its excellence and professionalism.

Besides running a thriving business, the doting mother and wife is deeply committed to service and humanitarian work through Rotary International. Having first visited a Rotary club as a guest many years ago, she rose through the ranks and is now set to be installed as the District Governor of Rotary International District 9111.
For Rotarian Bukola Olabisi Bakare, leadership is about service, impact, and helping others succeed. Whether in business or service, her journey reflects determination, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference.
Now set to lead District 9111, Bukola is focused on creating lasting impact through projects in healthcare, mental health, education, youth development, and economic empowerment.
A seasoned traveller, she remains grounded by the values of integrity, hard work, and service.
In this interview with Vanguard Allure, she shares her inspiring journey, the lessons that shaped her life, her vision for Rotary, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

What inspired you to join Rotary?
I was invited to the installation ceremony of Rotarian Prince Ade Akinfolurin when he was being installed as President of the Rotary Club of Ikeja GRA. After that day, Prince Ade invited me to one of their club meetings. It was engaging, inspiring and impactful. I listened to members talk about projects they had carried out, communities they had transformed and people whose lives had been changed through Rotary’s intervention. I heard stories of hope being restored to people who had almost given up.
As I sat there listening, my interest and passion grew and by my third or fourth meeting, I was inducted as a member of Rotary.

Rotary’s motto is “Service Above Self.” How has that principle shaped your life and leadership journey over the years?

That motto has become my way of life. For me, leadership has never been about being the person in front. It is about being the person who helps others move forward. The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing people grow, succeed and achieve things they once thought were impossible.
Service Above Self has taught me humility, empathy, patience and that true success is measured by impact, not titles.

You are about to make history as the District Governor of Rotary International District 9111. What does it mean to you?

When I stop and reflect on this journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Sometimes I find myself looking back at where it all started, a young girl born in Ilisan-Remo, raised in Ibadan, with big dreams and a determination to make something meaningful of her life. If someone had told me then that one day I would lead Rotary International District 9111, I probably would have smiled and moved on.

The emotions are many. I feel honoured, humbled, excited and deeply thankful. But above all, I feel a profound sense of responsibility. Leadership at this level is a privilege that comes with enormous expectations, and I do not take that lightly.

As I reflect on this milestone, I think about the many people who have contributed to my journey, my parents, my family, my mentors, my friends and the countless Rotarians who have guided, encouraged and believed in me over the years. I am particularly grateful to the Past District Governors whose leadership, wisdom and example helped shape the district we have today. I certainly did not get here by myself.

What makes this moment meaningful as a Rotarian?

What makes this moment especially meaningful is that it represents the culmination of many years of service, learning and personal growth.
For me, this role is not about a title or a position. It is about stewardship. It is about being entrusted with the responsibility of leading a district filled with passionate men and women who wake up every day determined to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

What key priorities and projects should Rotarians expect during your tenure as District Governor?

This Rotary year is built around one central theme: “Create Lasting Impact.” For me, impact is not measured by the number of meetings we hold or photographs we take. It is measured by lives transformed, communities empowered and hope restored.

One of our most ambitious projects is the Rotary Wellness Centre, a 60-bed mental health facility designed to provide treatment, rehabilitation and support for people living with mental health challenges. Mental health remains one of the most neglected areas of healthcare in Nigeria, and Rotary has an opportunity to make a significant difference.

We are also undertaking a Mega Medical Mission, which will provide consultations, surgeries, screenings and medical services to thousands of Nigerians. This project will directly improve and, in many cases, save lives.

Another project very dear to my heart is Mission for Vision, through which we plan to provide thousands of eyeglasses and support cataract surgeries. There is nothing quite like witnessing the joy of someone seeing clearly again after years of visual impairment.

We are equally committed to our Ability Without Limits Initiative, which focuses on supporting persons living with disabilities. Through this initiative, we will provide wheelchairs and other support systems while promoting inclusion, dignity and independence. I strongly believe that disability should never define a person’s potential.

Economic empowerment will also be a major focus. We plan to provide vocational training and starter packs to women and young people so they can become financially independent and contribute meaningfully to society.

Our Teacher Training Programme will strengthen educational outcomes by equipping teachers with modern skills and resources, while our Peace Ambassadors Programme will empower young people to become advocates for peace and conflict resolution. In addition, we will focus on membership growth, youth development, public image and increased support for The Rotary Foundation because sustainable service requires strong clubs and strong leadership. At the end of the year, I want people to say, “Rotary was here, and Rotary changed lives.”

You built Around ‘D’ Clock Security Company into one of Nigeria’s leading security firms. What were the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry?

The biggest challenge was overcoming stereotypes. Many people expected a man to be running a security company. I remember attending meetings where clients automatically assumed one of my male colleagues was the boss. There were moments when I had to prove myself repeatedly. Some people questioned whether a woman could understand the complexities of security management. Others simply underestimated me. Rather than becoming discouraged, I allowed my work to speak for me. I focused on professionalism, excellence and delivering results.

Over time, perceptions changed.
That experience taught me an important lesson: never allow other people’s limitations to define your possibilities.

From journalism and marketing to security management and criminology, what inspired each transition?

I have always been a curious person and I enjoy learning. Journalism taught me how to communicate effectively and connect with people. Marketing taught me relationship building and strategic thinking. Security management introduced me to leadership, discipline and business development. Criminology helped me understand human behaviour and security from a broader perspective. At different points in my life, opportunities presented themselves, and I was willing to embrace them.

What was growing up like for you? How did your upbringing shape the woman and leader you have become today?

I was born in Ilisan, but spent most of my childhood in Ibadan, where I attended both primary and secondary school. In many ways, I consider myself a product of both communities, the strong cultural values of Ilisan-Remo and the vibrant environment of Ibadan.
I was a complete tomboy. I was adventurous, energetic and always curious about the world around me. I enjoyed exploring, asking questions and challenging myself. I was never the type of child who simply accepted things because “that was how they had always been done.” One thing that stood out about me from a young age was my strong sense of justice. If I saw someone being treated unfairly, I found it difficult to stay silent. Whether it was a friend, neighbour or classmate, I instinctively wanted to defend those who could not defend themselves. Looking back now, I realise that my passion for service and advocacy did not start with Rotary, it started in childhood. I was also fortunate to grow up at a time when communities were closely knit. There was a strong emphasis on values, discipline, respect for elders and looking out for one another. Those lessons became deeply ingrained in me and continue to influence the way I lead today.

Years later, when I moved to the United Kingdom for further studies, those values were put to the test. Life was not easy. I was a full-time student while simultaneously working three jobs to support myself. It was demanding and exhausting, but it taught me resilience, discipline, sacrifice and perseverance. When I reflect on my journey today, I can see how every stage of my life prepared me for leadership. The curious little girl from Ibadan learned confidence. The young woman studying and working in the UK learned resilience. Rotary taught me service. Business taught me responsibility.

Who were the most influencial people in your life while growing up, and what life- saving lessons did they teach you?

My parents were undoubtedly the strongest influences in my life. They taught me honesty, discipline and the value of hard work. My father was a disciplinarian, who believed strongly in education and encouraged me to dream beyond my immediate circumstances under controlled conditions. Perhaps the greatest lesson my parents taught me was that character matters more than status. Positions come and go, wealth can come and go, but your integrity remains your greatest asset. That lesson has guided every major decision I have made in life.

You are a successful entrepreneur, Rotarian, wife, mother, and grandmother. How have you managed to balance these important roles?

Balance is something I continue to work on every day. There were periods when I was running a business, raising children and pursuing further education simultaneously. Looking back, I sometimes wonder how I managed it all.

How did you do it?

What helped me was prioritisation, discipline and learning when to ask for help. I also learned very early that perfection is unrealistic. Some days are better than others, and sometimes one area of your life demands more attention than another. The key is knowing what matters most at any given moment and giving it your best.
I have also been incredibly fortunate to have a supportive family. My husband, in particular, has played a significant role in my journey. Interestingly, he was a Rotarian before I joined Rotary and remains an active Rotarian today. Because of his long association with Rotary, he understands the organisation, its values and, most importantly, the enormous responsibility that comes with serving as a District Governor.
My husband understands all of that. He knows what the role requires and has been completely supportive throughout this journey.

You have visited 108 countries across six continents. Which destinations have left the deepest impression on you and why?

That is a difficult question because every country has left something behind. Japan impressed me tremendously with its discipline, efficiency and respect for systems. The United States inspired me with its innovation and entrepreneurial mindset. The United Kingdom reinforced the importance of structure and planning.
However, one of the greatest gifts that travelling to 108 countries has given me is perspective. The more you travel, the more you realise that people everywhere want essentially the same things, to provide for their families, to feel safe, to be respected and to live meaningful lives.
Travel has also taught me humility. No matter how much you think you know, there is always another culture, another tradition or another way of doing things that can teach you something new.

When you’re not working or attending Rotary engagements, what activities help you relax and recharge?

I enjoy travelling, reading, cooking and spending time with family. A lot of people are surprised when I tell them that I genuinely enjoy cooking. It is one of the things that helps me relax and unwind. In fact, those who know me well often say I am a great cook. And if I may say so myself, you have not really tasted Ikokore or fried rice until you have tasted mine! My family and friends will certainly agree. (Laughs.)
I also enjoy meeting people from different cultures. I find people fascinating, and I enjoy hearing their stories and understanding different perspectives.
But beyond all of that, I value quiet moments with family. No matter how busy life becomes, spending time with the people I love, helps me stay grounded and reminds me of what truly matters.

As a woman constantly in public-facing roles, how would you describe your personal fashion sense?

I would describe my style as elegant, confident and authentic. I enjoy looking polished and professional, but I also believe style should reflect personality. I do not follow trends blindly. I wear what makes me feel comfortable, confident and true to myself.

Which is your signature perfume, and what qualities do you look for in a fragrance?
I’m a Chanel woman through and through. (Laughs.) For me, it has always been Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel. In fact, my love for the fragrance goes beyond the perfume itself. I use the complete range— the perfume, body cream, body oil and even the soap.0n
Why?
Coco Mademoiselle is elegant, timeless and confident without being overpowering. It has a beautiful balance of sophistication and femininity, which I find very appealing. I believe a fragrance says a lot about a person. Just like your style, it becomes part of your identity and the impression you leave behind.

What are the three most important life lessons you would like to pass on to the next generation of leaders?

First, protect your integrity. It is one of the few things that money cannot buy. Second, never stop learning. The world changes constantly and growth requires continuous learning. Third, remember that success is not measured solely by what you achieve for yourself but by how many lives you help improve along the way.