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Lagos was a scene of solemn reflection and national tribute on Friday as prominent political leaders, dignitaries, and family members gathered to honour the life of Segun Awolowo, grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The service, held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, drew a distinguished crowd, all paying their last respects to a man widely admired for his dedication to public service.
The ceremony attracted a cross-section of Nigeria’s political elite, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Senate President Bukola Saraki and his wife, Toyin, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun. Also present were former governors James Ibori, Adeniyi Adebayo, and Gbenga Daniel, alongside business leaders, traditional chiefs, and religious figures.
President Bola Tinubu was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who delivered a heartfelt tribute capturing Segun Awolowo’s lifelong commitment to national development. Quoting the President, Gbajabiamila said:
“Segun served Nigeria with an exceptional passion and unending dedication. From his earliest days as a Special Assistant to the President, through his distinguished tenure as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, he pursued his objectives with discipline and purpose, achieving real success for our country. His latter service as Secretary of the National Committee for the African Continental Free Trade Area underscored his belief in a future for Nigeria and Africa built on trade, collaboration and shared prosperity. He was a family man, a kind and gentle man who spoke to people’s hearts just as well as he did to their minds.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who shared moments from the service on X, also paid tribute, praising Awolowo for upholding his family’s legacy while carving out a remarkable career. The governor wrote:
“He served Nigeria with quiet strength, steady conviction and a rare commitment to the ideals he held dear. My thoughts are with his wife, Adebola, his children and the entire Awolowo family.”
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki described Segun Awolowo as the embodiment of integrity and service. “His character was impeccable, and his influence was profound. Though we mourn his passing, we take comfort in knowing he lived a life of purpose and service. He will be dearly missed,” Saraki said.
The late Awolowo’s contributions extended beyond politics into trade and economic development, where he played key roles in promoting Nigerian exports and facilitating the African Continental Free Trade Area initiative. His life was marked by a dedication to advancing national and continental growth while remaining deeply committed to family and community.
Segun Awolowo passed away on November 20 at the age of 62. The service in Lagos was a reflection of the impact he had on those around him, drawing mourners from all spheres of public life to honour his memory.
From political leaders to religious figures, colleagues, and friends, the outpouring of grief and respect demonstrated the mark Segun Awolowo left as a dedicated public servant, family man, and advocate for national progress.
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