Segun Awolowo, grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former Premier of Western Nigeria and one of the country’s most iconic political figures, has died at the age of 62.
His family announced his passing in a statement issued on Thursday, expressing profound grief and describing him as an exceptional man whose influence extended far beyond his illustrious lineage.
“With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather — Olusegun Awolowo,” the statement read.
“He was the world’s most phenomenal husband, father and grandfather — steady, wise, endlessly loving, and the constant anchor of our family. A passionately loyal servant of Nigeria, he dedicated his life to 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 wonderful human being.”
The family did not disclose the cause of his death.
Segun Awolowo, a lawyer and public servant, was widely respected for his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and international trade positioning. He served as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from 2013 to 2022, a period marked by significant strides in promoting non-oil exports and repositioning Nigeria within global markets.
In 2021, he was unanimously elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs) of ECOWAS member states, reinforcing his reputation as a leading advocate for regional economic integration and trade expansion.
His commitment to African trade development was further recognised in 2023, when former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Secretary of the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). In this role, Awolowo worked to drive Nigeria’s preparedness and competitiveness under the historic continental agreement.
Beyond public service, he remained a prominent figure in the Awolowo dynasty, carrying forward the legacy of a family deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s political and intellectual history.
Tributes are expected from political leaders, business communities, and international partners in the coming days.
