Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has expressed profound grief following the death of Mr. Olusegun Awolowo Jr., the grandson of legendary Nigerian nationalist Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) passed away at the age of 62, as confirmed by his family in an official statement released on Thursday.
A Life of Service and Dedication
The Awolowo family announced the devastating news with "extremely heavy hearts," describing the deceased as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. In their emotional statement, they highlighted his unwavering commitment to Nigeria, noting that "he was a loyal servant to Nigeria, dedicating his life to the service of his country with vision, integrity, passion and unwavering commitment."
Governor Abiodun characterized Awolowo's passing as a "rude shock" and remembered him as "a gentleman par excellence, a voice of courage, and a consummate public servant." The governor admitted receiving the news with "utter disbelief" and emphasized how he would forever treasure memories of their relationship.
Overcoming Adversity to Achieve Greatness
Despite facing early life challenges, including being born just two months after his father's death, Awolowo Jr. rose above adversity to establish himself as a distinguished figure in his own right. After being called to the Nigerian Bar in December 1989, he began his professional journey with prominent law firms Abayomi Sogbesan & Co. and GOK Ajayi & Co.
His public service career included several significant appointments:
- Special Assistant on Traditional Institutions, Legal Due Diligence, and Legal Matters under President Olusegun Obasanjo
- Special Assistant to President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua
- Secretary for Social Development and later Secretary of Transport between 2007 and 2011
- Executive Director/CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council from 2013 to 2021
Lasting Legacy and International Recognition
Governor Abiodun highlighted that Awolowo's exemplary service earned him unanimous election as President of National Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) from ECOWAS member states in July 2021. The governor reflected that while "his earthly sojourn may have been brief, it was hugely impactful."
Remembering Awolowo's personal qualities, Abiodun described him as "affable, highly intelligent, and extremely easygoing" - characteristics that endeared him to many and made his sudden departure particularly painful.
"It is extremely hard to process the news that Segun Awolowo Jr. is gone, but we submit unreservedly to the will of the Almighty God," the governor stated, adding that "we take consolation in the exemplary lessons his life taught us, for he was indeed a jolly good fellow."
Governor Abiodun extended his condolences to Awolowo's wife, children, the entire Awolowo family, and Nigerians nationwide, praying that God grants them strength to bear the significant loss. The governor concluded with the heartfelt wish: "May his gentle soul rest in sweet repose."
