Former Delta State governor, James Ibori, has encouraged Bola, the widow of the late Segun Awolowo Jnr., to find comfort in the many heartfelt tributes that have been shared since her husband’s passing.
Segun Awolowo, a grandson of the late sage Obafemi Awolowo, died on November 20 at the age of 62.
A Night of Tributes was held in his honour on Tuesday at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Ibori described the former chief executive officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) as a gentle, noble and impactful public servant whose influence would continue to be felt long after his death.
Turning to the widow, he said, “Everything that has been said here today is meant to strengthen you. He was truly an exceptional man.”
Ibori recalled receiving the news of Awolowo’s death during another memorial event for the late Oskar Ibru, calling the coincidence deeply painful.
“My first reaction was, ‘What a season this is.’ He lived a remarkable life through every chapter. Honestly, I never imagined the end would come this quickly,” he said.
“Even though we knew he had health challenges, nothing prepared us for the depth of the shock and sorrow when the news came.”
The former governor praised Awolowo’s calm nature, integrity and commitment to national progress, noting that despite his illustrious background, he carried the Awolowo heritage “not as a badge of privilege but as a burden of responsibility.”
Ibori said Awolowo stood out in public service, especially as the head of the NEPC, where he vigorously promoted Nigeria’s non-oil export drive with clarity and determination.
“He performed excellently. He wasn’t in office for recognition — he was there to deliver results. He was a genuine servant of the nation,” Ibori said.
He described Awolowo as “a link between a distinguished past and a promising future,” adding that his life embodied humility, discipline and purposeful leadership.
Ibori extended condolences to the Awolowo family and everyone affected by the loss, praying that they find strength during this difficult time.
“As we mourn him, we offer our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Bola, and to all who knew and cherished him. May they find comfort in the honour and respect his life earned,” he said.
“He lived a meaningful life, even though it ended earlier than expected. He represented grace, service and the lasting value of a good name. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
