By Peter Omopo
A distinguished gathering of political leaders, public figures, clergy, and family members filled Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, on Friday for the funeral service of Segun Awolowo, grandson of the late nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Segun Awolowo, a former Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), and Secretary of the National Committee for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), died on November 20 at the age of 62.
The service drew some of Nigeria’s most prominent personalities, 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.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who delivered a tribute on behalf of the President. Gbajabiamila praised the late Awolowo’s distinguished contributions to national development, describing him as a disciplined, purposeful public servant.
“Segun served Nigeria with an exceptional passion and unending dedication,” the President’s tribute stated. “From his earliest days as Special Assistant to the President, through his tenure as Executive Director of the NEPC, he pursued his objectives with discipline and purpose. His service on the National Committee for the AfCFTA underscored his belief in Nigeria and Africa’s future. He was a family man—kind, gentle, and deeply thoughtful.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a post shared on X, said Segun Awolowo upheld the Awolowo family’s legacy with honour while making significant contributions in his own right. “He served Nigeria with quiet strength, steady conviction, and rare commitment,” the governor wrote, extending condolences to the widow, Adebola, their children, and the Awolowo family.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki also paid tribute, describing the deceased as “the very definition of a good man.” Saraki added that Awolowo’s character was “impeccable,” noting that his impact on those around him was profound.
Other dignitaries present included former Governors James Ibori (Delta), Adeniyi Adebayo (Ekiti), and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun), alongside Anglican bishops, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and business executives.
The service honoured a man widely regarded for his integrity, humility, and dedication to public service, as tributes highlighted both his professional achievements and his gentle personal disposition.
Segun Awolowo is survived by his wife, children, and extended family.
