The late Chief Segun Awolowo, former Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and grandson of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was laid to rest yesterday in Lagos at a solemn ceremony attended by top dignitaries including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE Media Group. The event also drew a host of statesmen, political leaders, and business figures.
Other notable attendees included former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, former Senate President Bukola Saraki and his wife, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, former Ogun Governor Gbenga Daniel and his wife, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Chief Dele Momodu, former NBA President Olumide Akpata, and Lady Ibru, among many others.
President Tinubu, represented at the ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, paid tribute to Awolowo’s immense contributions to national development, describing him as “a patriot whose brilliance, calm strength, and statesmanship enriched Nigeria’s economic and political fabric.”
He said, “I have known the pain of losing a child. Grief of this nature is heavy, solitary, and lingering. My heart goes out to you. I pray God grants you the strength to bear this loss and remember Segun as he truly was: a good man who lived a good life.
“Segun Awolowo was dedicated, disciplined, and purposeful. From his early role as Special Assistant to the President to his tenure as NEPC Executive Director/CEO, he delivered remarkable results, championing economic growth and national development. His later work with the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area reflected his belief in Nigeria’s future through trade, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
“Above all, Segun was a devoted family man, a kind and gentle soul who touched the hearts and minds of those around him. My wife Oluremi and I extend our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him.”
Senate President Akpabio described Awolowo as a bridge-builder and a patriotic son of Nigeria, noting that “his humility and warmth endeared him to all. He represented the very best of public service and his work promoting Nigeria’s global image and economic opportunities remains a model for national service. His passing is a great loss to the nation.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu eulogized Awolowo as “a man who carried greatness with simplicity,” while Ogun State Governor Abiodun highlighted his distinguished legal and public service career, praising his promotion of economic diversification and support for SMEs.
The Vicar and Archdeacon of Our Saviour’s Church, Ikoyi, Ven. Folorunso Agbelusi, in his sermon titled Dimensions of Divine Help, reminded mourners that life on earth is temporary and that Segun Awolowo had only “changed address.” He emphasized the importance of divine help in enabling Awolowo to serve with integrity, uphold family legacies, and leave a lasting impact.
Segun Awolowo was widely celebrated for his contributions to economic diplomacy, export development, and advocacy for intra-African trade. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and the extended Awolowo family.
