The funeral service of Segun Awolowo, grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), drew a distinguished gathering of political leaders, dignitaries, and family members on Friday, December 6, 2025.
The solemn ceremony took place at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where family, friends, and associates came together to pay tribute to a man celebrated for his commitment to public service and national development.
High-Profile Attendees Pay Tribute
Among those who attended were 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 Tinubu was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who delivered a tribute highlighting Awolowo’s exceptional dedication and distinguished career.
“Segun served Nigeria with an exceptional passion and unending dedication. From his earliest days as a Special Assistant to the President, through his tenure as Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, he pursued his objectives with discipline and purpose, achieving real success for our country,” Gbajabiamila read on behalf of the President.
The tribute also noted Awolowo’s service as Secretary of the National Committee for the African Continental Free Trade Area, emphasizing his belief in fostering Nigeria and Africa’s growth through trade, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
Leaders Honour His Life and Legacy
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, sharing photos from the event on social media, acknowledged Segun Awolowo’s ability to uphold his family’s legacy while creating his own.
“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,” Sanwo-Olu wrote.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki described Awolowo as “the very definition of a good man”, praising his impeccable character and profound influence.
“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.
Other notable attendees included former Governors James Ibori (Delta), Adeniyi Adebayo (Ekiti), and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun), alongside Anglican bishops, priests, traditional and religious leaders, and industry captains, all of whom paid tribute to the late Awolowo’s legacy.
Remembering Segun Awolowo
Segun Awolowo, who passed away at the age of 62 on November 20, 2025, was widely recognized for his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development, particularly through his leadership at the NEPC and his efforts in trade and investment promotion.
His funeral service reflected the respect and admiration he earned from colleagues, political leaders, and the wider community, highlighting a life devoted to service, integrity, and national progress.
