Nigeria has lost one of its most respected public figures, Segun Awolowo, a lawyer, economic advocate, and grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former Premier of the Western Region. He passed away at the age of 62, the Awolowo family confirmed in a statement on Thursday.
“With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather — Olusegun Awolowo,” the family said. “He was the world’s most phenomenal husband, father and grandfather — steady, wise, endlessly loving, and the constant anchor of our family. A painfully 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 wonderful servant of God, and a deeply beautiful human being.”
Segun Awolowo carved his own path in public service. A trained lawyer, he served as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from 2013 to 2021, where he championed the Zero Oil Initiative and other policies aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s economy. His contributions to trade and export promotion earned him respect both within and outside the country.
In July 2021, he was unanimously elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) of ECOWAS member states, a role in which he further advocated for regional economic integration and export development.
His life was also marked by deep family history. He was the son of Segun Awolowo Sr., who died tragically in 1963 at the age of 25 in a car accident along the old Ibadan–Lagos road. Despite the loss of his father at infancy, Segun upheld the Awolowo legacy with dignity, intellect and patriotic service.
His death marks the end of another chapter in one of Nigeria’s most iconic political families. Tributes are already pouring in from across the country, honouring his calm strength, public service ethos, and unwavering dedication to national development.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
