Olusegun Awolowo, Grandson of Late Obafemi Awolowo and Former NEPC Executive Director, Dies at 62

Former NEPC Executive Director and grandson of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Olusegun Awolowo, has died at 62, the family announced in an emotional statement

Nigeria has lost one of its notable public servants and a scion of one of the country’s most illustrious political families, Olusegun Awolowo, the grandson of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He was 62.

His passing was announced on Thursday in an emotional statement released by the Awolowo family.

Family Announces Loss with Heavy Hearts

The statement, titled “Statement on the Passing of Olusegun Awolowo,” described him as a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a deeply committed servant of Nigeria.

“With extremely heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather — Olusegun Awolowo,” the family said.

“He was the world’s most phenomenal husband, father and grandfather — steady, wise, endlessly loving, and the constant anchor of our family. A painfully loyal servant to Nigeria, he dedicated his life to the service of his country with vision, integrity, passion, and unwavering commitment.”

“We are shattered by this loss, but forever grateful for his life, his legacy, and the love he poured into all of us. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

The family also announced that they will receive condolences at his residence between 2pm and 4pm daily.

A Life Marked by Service, Culture and Humility

Awolowo, a former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), was widely known for his intellect, poise, and devotion to national development. His career reflected the values of public service and nation-building associated with the Awolowo heritage.

A familiar figure in Lagos’ high society circles, Awolowo shocked many of his influential friends in 2023 when he opted not to hold a lavish celebration for his 60th birthday.
Instead, he chose a solemn, reflective milestone, anchored in gratitude.

In his birthday letter to friends, he noted that while earlier celebrations often reflected the exuberant Lagos lifestyle he grew up in, turning 60 brought a deeper sense of reflection. On the day, he hosted close friends—including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Bimbo Ashiru, Florence Ita-Giwa, and Jide Coker—to a private church service at the Church of the Nativity, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, followed by a modest breakfast at his residence.

The event also marked his announcement of his soon-to-be-released autobiography, “Judged by a Surname,” a title that hints at the weight and expectations carried by a member of the iconic Awolowo dynasty.

Legacy

Olusegun Awolowo leaves behind a legacy of public service, family devotion, cultural sophistication, and national commitment. His death marks a significant loss not just to his family but to Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape.