Olusegun Awolowo, Grandson of Late Sage Obafemi Awolowo, Dies at 62

Olusegun Awolowo has died. He was the grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He passed away on Thursday at the age of 62.

The Awolowo family confirmed the news in a statement. They described him as the “constant anchor” of their home.

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

They remembered him as a wise and loving figure. The statement also highlighted his public life. It noted that he served Nigeria with vision, integrity, and passion.

President Tinubu Mourns

President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the loss. He described the death as a tragedy for the entire nation.

Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, released a statement on Thursday. In it, the President noted that the late Segun upheld the famous Awolowo name.

“Segun exemplified the Awolowo pedigree in appearance, character, and demeanour,” Tinubu remarked.

The President praised Segun’s career as a lawyer. He also highlighted his time as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). Segun served in this role from 2013 to 2021. He was the longest-serving executive director in the agency’s history.

President Tinubu sent his condolences to Segun’s wife, children, and his mother, Sisi Abah Folawiyo.

A Shock to Ogun State

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, also paid tribute. He expressed “utter disbelief” at the news.

Governor Abiodun described Awolowo as a courageous public servant and a gentleman.

“To all who knew him, Mr. Segun Awolowo was affable, highly intelligent, accommodating, and easy-going,” the governor said. He added that while Segun’s life was brief, it was very impactful.

A Life of Resilience

Resilience marked Olusegun Awolowo’s life from the start. He was born just two months after his father died. Despite this early tragedy, he built a successful career in law and public service.

He was called to the Bar in December 1989. He worked with top legal firms like Abayomi Sogbesan & Co. and GOK Ajayi & Co.

Later, he moved into public service. He worked as a Special Assistant under the Obasanjo administration. Between 2007 and 2011, he served as Secretary for Social Development and Secretary of Transport.

In July 2021, his work received regional recognition. He was unanimously elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organisations for ECOWAS member states.

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