Makinde and Ibori mourn Awolowo, praising the former NEPC chief’s integrity and impact as tributes pour in after his death at 62

IBADAN, 20 November 2025 — Former Delta State Governor Chief James Iboriand Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Thursday expressed profound sorrow as they confirmed the death of Olusegun Awolowo, the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, who died at the age of 62.

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The leaders said the loss was a major blow to Nigeria’s public service tradition.

The Makinde and Ibori mourn Awolowo tributes captured both personal grief and national reflection.

In a statement issued by Chief James Ibori, he described Olusegun Awolowo’s passing as a painful loss to the nation and to all who knew him.

He said he was devastated by the news and praised Awolowo for carrying the family name with dignity, humility and purpose.

Ibori noted that Olusegun Awolowo, a grandson of the late statesman Chief Obafemi Awolowo, left a transformative mark on the NEPC.

He said the former director’s leadership expanded support for non-oil exports, nurtured local producers and opened global markets, achievements that continue to strengthen Nigeria’s economic diversification.

He called Awolowo a gentle, principled figure whose calm strength earned respect across political divides.

In a powerful reflection, Ibori added that Awolowo believed firmly in service rather than spectacle and said his integrity would remain a guiding example.

He extended condolences to the Awolowo family, friends and colleagues, praying for resilience as they navigate the loss.

In a separate statement, Governor Seyi Makinde, through his Special Assistant (Print Media), Moses Alao, also described the death as painful and a sad moment for the country.

He condoled with Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Chairman of African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC, the wider Awolowo family and the management of the Tribune titles.

Makinde said Olusegun Awolowo was a great mind and an admirable ambassador of the family who distinguished himself in every role he assumed.

He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and comfort for all who mourn him.