Olusegun Awolowo, a grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has died.
The Awolowo family announced his passing on Thursday. He was 62. “With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Olusegun Awolowo,” the statement read.
The family described him as “the world’s most phenomenal husband, father and grandfather , steady, wise, endlessly loving, and the constant anchor of our family.
“A loyal servant to Nigeria, he dedicated his life to the service of his country with vision, integrity, passion, and unwavering commitment. He was a true family man, a great friend, a devoted servant of God, and a deeply admirable human being.
“We are shattered by this loss, but forever grateful for his life, his legacy, and the love he poured into all of us. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
Reacting, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the passing of Segun Awolowo.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences to the Awolowo family through a statement signed Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President described Segun Awolowo’s death at 62 as unfortunate and a tragic loss “not only to the Awolowo family, but also to the entire country.”
He noted that the late Segun distinguished himself as a scion of the Awolowo family. “Segun exemplified the Awolowo pedigree in appearance, character and demeanour. Like his grandfather, he was a lawyer committed to defending truth and justice.
“He made significant contributions to Nigeria. He served diligently as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council from 2013 to 2021, standing as the longest-serving executive director of the agency in history,” the President said.
He added: “My sympathy and condolences to his wife and children, the Awolowo family, and his mum, Sisi Abah Folawiyo.
“I also commiserate with the governments and people of Ogun State, the entire South-West geopolitical zone, and Nigeria, over this painful loss. May his soul rest in peace.”
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, also expressed sorrow over the loss, describing Awolowo as a “gentleman par excellence, a voice of courage, and a consummate public servant.”
In a statement issued by his media aide, Kayode Akinmade, Abiodun said he received the news with “utter disbelief” but would treasure the memories of knowing him.
“To all who knew him, Mr Segun Awolowo was affable, highly intelligent, accommodating and easy-going,” the governor said.
“His earthly sojourn may have been brief, but it was impactful,” the governor added, offering condolences to his wife, children, the Awolowo family, and Nigerians in general.
Born two months after the death of his father, Awolowo rose above early challenges to build a distinguished career.
He studied Law and was called to the Bar in December 1989, working with the law firms of Abayomi Sogbesan & Co. and GOK Ajayi & Co.
He later served as Special Assistant on Traditional Institutions, Legal Due Diligence, and Legal Matters under President Olusegun Obasanjo, and held several key positions in subsequent administrations.
From 2007 to 2011, he served as Secretary for Social Development and Secretary of Transport, and from 2013 to 2021, he was Executive Director of the NEPC.
In July 2021, he was unanimously elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organisations for ECOWAS member states.
