The Nigerian public service community is mourning the loss of Olusegun Awolowo, former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), who passed away at the age of 62.
Family Confirms the Passing
In an emotional statement released on Thursday, the Awolowo family confirmed the devastating news. The family described him as a dedicated public servant and committed family man who served Nigeria with exceptional devotion.
"With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Olusegun Awolowo," the family statement read. They emphasized his unwavering commitment to Nigeria, noting he served "with vision, integrity, passion and unwavering commitment."
A Life of Service and Legacy
Born on September 27, 1963, Awolowo's life was marked by both privilege and tragedy. He was the grandson of the legendary nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. His father died in a car accident just two months before his birth, leaving him to be raised by his aunt, Mrs Tola Oyediran, and her husband, Professor Kayode Oyediran.
His educational journey included:
- Early education at Mayhill Convent School alongside Dolapo Osinbajo, wife of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo
- Secondary education at Igbobi College, Lagos and Government College, Ibadan
- Law degree from Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University)
After being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989, Awolowo practiced with several law firms before transitioning into public service. He served under Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar'Adua before his landmark appointment.
Transformative Leadership at NEPC
In November 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed Awolowo as Executive Director of NEPC, a position he maintained under President Muhammadu Buhari until 2021.
During his eight-year tenure, Awolowo championed several groundbreaking initiatives:
The Zero Oil Plan became his signature policy, aiming to diversify Nigeria's economy by shifting from raw material exports to value-added products and boosting foreign exchange earnings.
In 2018, he demonstrated his visionary leadership by securing a $1 billion memorandum of understanding with AFREXIM Bank and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank to strengthen intra-African trade.
His regional influence was further recognized in July 2021 when he was elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organisations of ECOWAS member states.
Beyond his professional achievements, Awolowo maintained strong family connections. His daughter, Seun, continues the family's legacy of service through Teach-A-Girl Nigeria, an NGO focused on girl child education, and as founder of Leads Africa and 3D Living Moments.
The family's tribute captured his essence perfectly: "He loved his family. He loved his work. He loved his country. And he lived every day with purpose, humility and a generous spirit that touched everyone who knew him."
