Image of Olusegun Awolowo

Olusegun Awolowo, a grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has passed away at the age of 62, the family announced on Thursday.

“With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Olusegun Awolowo,” the family statement read. “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.”

President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sadness over Segun Awolowo’s death, describing it as a tragic loss “not only to the Awolowo family, but also to the entire country.” In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President noted, “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, serving diligently as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council from 2013 to 2021, standing as the longest-serving executive director in the agency’s history.”

Tinubu further extended condolences to Awolowo’s wife, children, mother Sisi Abah Folawiyo, the Awolowo family, Ogun State, the South-West geopolitical zone, and all Nigerians affected by the loss.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun also mourned the passing, describing Segun Awolowo as a “gentleman par excellence, a voice of courage, and a consummate public servant.” Through his media aide, Kayode Akinmade, Abiodun said he received the news with “utter disbelief” but treasured the memories of knowing him. “To all who knew him, Mr Segun Awolowo was affable, highly intelligent, accommodating, and easy-going. His earthly sojourn may have been brief, but it was impactful,” the governor added.

Born two months after the death of his father, Segun Awolowo overcame early challenges to forge a distinguished career. He studied law and was called to the Bar in December 1989, practising 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.

Segun Awolowo’s legacy is remembered for his commitment to public service, his contributions to Nigeria’s economic and legal sectors, and his embodiment of the Awolowo family’s values of integrity, service, and excellence.