Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, grandson of the late statesman and Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The Governor described his passing as a major loss not only to the Awolowo family but also to Nigeria, noting that Olusegun lived a life marked by service, commitment, and loyalty to national development.
In a condolence message issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu praised the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) as a public servant who carried himself with dignity and dedication. He said Olusegun Awolowo contributed meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic agenda, especially in the area of non-oil exports, and upheld the values of hard work and patriotism associated with the Awolowo family.
Olusegun Awolowo’s death came as a surprise to many Nigerians, including political leaders, business figures, and members of the diplomatic community who had worked with him over the years. His family has long been respected for its influence in Nigeria’s political and intellectual history, beginning with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of the most prominent figures in Nigeria’s independence movement and early nation-building efforts.
Olusegun, who served as NEPC’s Executive Director/Chief Executive, was known for leading the agency’s efforts to boost Nigeria’s non-oil export sector through initiatives like the Zero Oil Plan. The programme encouraged diversification of the economy and strengthened Nigeria’s presence in global markets at a time when the country was trying to reduce dependence on crude oil revenue. His leadership at the agency won him respect from exporters, business leaders, and international partners.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his message, described Olusegun Awolowo as an “exceptional Nigerian” who carried the Awolowo name with honour and used his roles in public service to support economic growth and national development.
“It is with profound sadness that I extend my condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Olusegun Awolowo,” the Governor said. “He was an exceptional Nigerian who served the nation with passion and purpose, and he remained a worthy representative of the Awolowo legacy.”
Sanwo-Olu added that the late Awolowo was “a committed patriot who distinguished himself through vision, integrity, and dedication,” noting that his contributions would not be forgotten by those who benefitted from his leadership and ideas.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I offer our heartfelt sympathies to the Awolowo family and all who mourn him. We pray that God grants them the strength to endure this painful loss and grants Olusegun Awolowo eternal rest,” he said.
Olusegun Awolowo was part of a widely admired political and intellectual lineage. His grandfather, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, remains one of the most influential figures in Nigerian political history. Known for his strong advocacy for education, regional development, and democratic ideals, the elder Awolowo left a legacy that has shaped political discourse in the South-West and beyond for decades.
His daughter, the late businesswoman and philanthropist Chief (Mrs.) H.I.D. Awolowo, and other members of the family have also played major roles in national life. Olusegun continued this tradition by dedicating much of his career to public service.
Beyond his work with the NEPC, he also held advisory and leadership roles in government and private institutions. He was known for his calm, thoughtful style and his ability to work across political and professional lines. Many who interacted with him described him as polite, focused, and deeply committed to whatever assignment he took on.
Since the news of his death became public, tributes have poured in from across the country. Officials from past and present governments, business leaders, and civil society figures have expressed sadness at the loss and praised his efforts to promote Nigeria’s economic interests.
Business associations especially remember him for his work in supporting small and medium-scale exporters, helping them gain access to international markets and encouraging them to compete globally. His time at NEPC is often credited with modernising the agency and giving it greater relevance in national economic planning.
The Awolowo family continues to hold an important place in the nation’s memory. Chief Obafemi Awolowo is remembered for pioneering free education in the Western Region, promoting economic reforms, and influencing Nigeria’s political development for decades. The family has also produced writers, lawyers, activists, and administrators.
Olusegun’s death, therefore, touches many Nigerians who see the Awolowos as symbols of public service, discipline, and purposeful leadership. His passing is being viewed as another loss to a family that has contributed greatly to national life.
For Governor Sanwo-Olu and many others, Olusegun Awolowo’s death marks the end of a life dedicated to service, and his memory will likely continue to inspire those working to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and public institutions.
The Governor’s message reflects the general sentiment across the country: Nigeria has lost a committed patriot, and the Awolowo family has lost yet another pillar in its long line of dedicated public servants.
