Former Executive Director/CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Segun Awolowo, was yesterday, laid to rest in Lagos at a solemn ceremony attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, and an array of statesmen, political leaders and business personalities.

Other dignitaries that attended the funeral ceremony included former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and his wife; former Senate President Bukola Saraki and his wife; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel and his wife; former Delta State Governor, James Ibori; Senator Tokunbo Abiru; Chief Dele Momodu; former NBA President Olumide Akpata; and Lady Ibru, among several others.

Tinubu, represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, joined other dignitaries in honouring Awolowo’s contributions to national development, describing him as, “a patriot whose brilliance, calm strength and statesmanship enriched Nigeria’s economic and political fabric.”

According to him, “I have known the pain of losing a child. I understand from experience that grief of this nature is heavy, solitary, and lingering. My heart goes out to you. I pray that God, in His infinite mercy, grants you the strength to bear this loss and to remember Segun as he truly was: a good man who lived a good life.

“Segun Awolowo was a patriot with exceptional passion and unwavering dedication. From his earliest days as Special Assistant to the President to his distinguished tenure as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, he pursued every assignment with purpose, diligence, and discipline. He delivered remarkable successes for our nation.

“His later role as Secretary of the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area reflected his strong belief in Nigeria’s future; a future built on trade, collaboration, and shared prosperity.”

“Above all, Segun was a family man; a kind and gentle soul who spoke to the hearts of people as effortlessly as he engaged their minds. Wise beyond his years, yet humble in all things, he remained a loving husband, father, grandson, and loyal friend. His life was guided by a deep and abiding faith.

“My wife, Oluremi, and I extend our deepest condolences to you and to all who knew and loved Segun. We share in your grief, but we also share in your pride. Segun lived a life defined by purpose, dignity, and humanity.”

Also speaking, Akpabio described the deceased as a bridge-builder and a patriotic son of Nigeria.

According to him, “Segun Awolowo was not just another Nigerian. He was a bridge-builder, a patriotic son of this country, and a man whose humility and warmth endeared him to all who knew him. His life was a testament to service; service to family, to community, and to our beloved nation.

“He represented the very best of public service. His work in promoting Nigeria’s global image, strengthening economic opportunities, and supporting small businesses remains a model of devoted national service. His passion for the Nigerian project was unwavering.

“In moments like this, we are reminded that no matter our position, whether senator, governor, minister, or citizen, we are all mortals. One day, each of us will give an account of how we lived, whom we loved, and what we contributed. Segun’s account is one of excellence. His passing is a great loss; not just to his family, but to Nigeria.”

In his tribute, Governor Sanwo-Olu eulogised Awolowo as, “a man who carried greatness with simplicity,” adding that, “Segun Awolowo lived and loved deeply. He leaves behind a legacy of service without compromise and leadership without arrogance.”

Similarly, Governor Abiodun highlighted Awolowo’s distinguished career as a lawyer, noting his service as Special Assistant to former Presidents and as Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, where he championed economic diversification and supported micro, small, and medium enterprises.

He added that, “Segun was a proud advocate of the ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ vision, often wearing his agbada and adire with pride, and representing Nigeria at home and abroad.

“Segun leaves behind a legacy that speaks loudly: a legacy of vision without fear, service without compromise, leadership without arrogance, and an unshakeable belief in the greatness of Nigeria and Africa.”

Earlier in his sermon, the Vicar and Archdeacon of Our Saviour’s Church, Ikoyi, Ven. Folorunso Agbelusi, emphasised that “Segun upheld the family’s heritage with grace and integrity, bringing honour rather than shame to the Awolowo name.”

Agbelusi, while quoting Psalm 90:1, with his sermon titled ‘Dimensions of Divine Help’, reminded mourners that Segun Awolowo had not been lost but had only “changed address,” noting that earthly life is temporary while eternal life with God is permanent.

He explained that divine help is God’s timely intervention that meets every need, providing security, rest, and guidance. He said Awolowo had received many dimensions of divine help in his life, “enabling him to serve with integrity, uphold family legacies, and leave a lasting impact.”

He therefore encouraged the congregation to seek God’s help in their own lives, reminding them that anyone who returns to God, “even after straying, can find restoration, forgiveness, and empowerment.”

Segun Awolowo was celebrated for his work in economic diplomacy, export development, and his vigorous advocacy for intra-African trade. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and the wider Awolowo family. (This Day)

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