National Icons Gather: Osinbajo, Akpabio, Saraki Grace Segun Awolowo’s Funeral Service

The funeral service for 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 dignitaries on Friday, December 6.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The solemn event took place at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where family, friends, and colleagues of the late Awolowo assembled to pay their respects.

High-profile attendees included 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 at the service by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who delivered a tribute highlighting Segun Awolowo’s exceptional contributions to national service. Tinubu’s message described him as a dedicated public servant whose career reflected “exceptional passion and unending dedication.”

The tribute recounted Segun Awolowo’s impressive career trajectory, from his early role as Special Assistant to the President to his tenure as Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. Tinubu also lauded his service as Secretary of the National Committee for the African Continental Free Trade Area, emphasizing his commitment to advancing trade and collaboration for the benefit of Nigeria and Africa.

“As a Special Assistant to the President and later as Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Segun pursued his goals with discipline and purpose, achieving meaningful success for our nation,” Gbajabiamila read on behalf of the President. “His work with the African Continental Free Trade Area Committee underscored his belief in a future built on trade, collaboration, and shared prosperity.”

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, sharing moments from the service on social media, highlighted Segun Awolowo’s ability to honor his family’s legacy while carving his own path. “He served Nigeria with quiet strength, steady conviction, and a rare commitment to his ideals. My thoughts are with his wife, Adebola, his children, and the Awolowo family,” the governor wrote.

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki described the late 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 figures in attendance included former governors James Ibori (Delta), Adeniyi Adebayo (Ekiti), and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun), alongside Anglican bishops and priests, traditional and religious leaders, and business leaders who came to honor the late public servant.

Segun Awolowo, aged 62, passed away on November 20, 2025. His death was publicly announced by the Awolowo family, with tributes reflecting his enduring legacy of service and dedication to Nigeria’s development.