Olusegun “Segun” Awolowo Jr, born on 27 September 1963, was a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, public servant and trade development leader, and the grandson of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist figures. His death on 20 November 2025, at age 62, marked the passing of a life deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s legal, economic and governance evolution.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo was a prominent Nigerian statesman, advocate for independence and federalism, and an influential political leader in the mid‑20th century. His legacy shaped political discourse and national development.
Segun’s life spanned a period of significant national transformation, from post‑independence governance reforms to modern economic diversification efforts. His professional journey reflected both continuity with his family’s legacy and personal commitment to national service.
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Education and Early Legal Career
Segun Awolowo’s formative education began at Mayhill Convent School, continued at Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos, and completed at Government College, Ibadan. He earned his law degree (LLB) from Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), advancing into legal practice after being called to the Nigerian Bar in December 1989.
He worked with Abayomi Sogbesan & Co. and GOK Ajayi & Co., reputable law firms where he gained professional experience before transitioning into public service.
Public Service and Governance Roles
Segun Awolowo’s service to Nigeria was extensive and spanned multiple administrations. Under President Olusegun Obasanjo, he was appointed a Special Assistant on Traditional Institutions, Legal Due Diligence and Legal Matters, roles that involved advising on legal frameworks and institutional interactions.
He later served in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in Abuja under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, where he held positions such as Secretary for Social Development and Secretary of Transport between 2007 and 2011.
These roles encapsulated his engagement with governance challenges in both social policy and infrastructure oversight, demonstrating his versatility beyond courtroom advocacy.
Leadership at the Nigerian Export Promotion Council
In November 2013, Segun Awolowo was appointed Executive Director/CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) by then‑President Goodluck Jonathan. His leadership at NEPC was sustained across successive administrations until 2022, making him one of the longest serving heads of the council.
During his tenure, NEPC undertook efforts to broaden Nigeria’s export base beyond crude oil, reinforcing agricultural, manufacturing and non‑oil sectors as pillars for sustainable economic growth. While specific project metrics vary by industry, his leadership was recognised as instrumental by peers, business organisations and government stakeholders.
In July 2021, Segun was unanimously elected President of the National Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs) for member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), reflecting regional confidence in his leadership on export and trade facilitation issues.
In 2023, he was appointed Secretary of the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a role that positioned him at the centre of Nigeria’s engagement with continental trade integration and cooperation frameworks.
National Reactions and Public Recognition
The news of Segun Awolowo’s death elicited reactions from leaders and organisations across Nigeria, underscoring his national impact.
President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow, describing Segun’s passing as a “tragic loss not only to the Awolowo family, but also to the entire country,” and highlighting his long service at NEPC and his commitment to truth, justice and national development.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State mourned his death as a “profound personal loss”, praising his qualities as a consummate public servant and describing him as “a gentleman par excellence”.
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (NACCIMA) lamented his passing, noting his contributions to export promotion and economic strategy, and reaffirming his legacy of disciplined leadership and patriotic service.
The Pan‑Yoruba group Afenifere celebrated his public administration contributions while mourning his loss, noting his embodiment of values associated with his grandfather’s legacy.
These responses reflect cross‑sectional respect from government, private sector and civil society stakeholders.
Legacy and National Significance
Segun Awolowo’s life symbolised a commitment to public service grounded in legal expertise, economic development and governance stewardship. His work at NEPC and his roles related to ECOWAS trade networks and AfCFTA strategy underscore Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and engage more robustly with regional and continental markets.
His passing resonated not because of headline prominence alone, but because his career touched diverse facets of national life: legal practice, policy formulation, export strategy and multilateral trade cooperation.
Within the Awolowo family legacy, he represented continuity, upholding public service values and adapting them to contemporary national priorities. His influence extended beyond familial heritage to the professional and national spheres, shaping discourse on Nigeria’s economic pathways.
Segun Awolowo Jr’s life and career charted a course from legal practice to leadership in national and regional trade development. His contributions to public service, advocacy for export diversification, and engagement with continental trade frameworks reflect his enduring commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
Although his death in November 2025 marked the end of a distinguished journey, his legacy continues to inform institutional priorities for economic expansion, institutional excellence and professional integrity.
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Author’s Note
This article is based on verified historical records, official announcements and credible news reporting. Segun Awolowo Jr’s life exemplified dedicated national service across legal, administrative and economic development spheres. His legacy reflects Nigeria’s evolving public service ethos and ongoing efforts toward economic diversification and regional engagement.
References
- Daily Times, Segun Awolowo, grandson of Obafemi Awolowo, dies at 62, 21 November 2025.
- State House Abuja, PRESIDENT Tinubu mourns the passing of Awo’s grandson, 21 November 2025.
