A solemn atmosphere enveloped Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, on Friday as President Bola Tinubu, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and several dignitaries joined relatives and well-wishers to bid farewell to Olusegun Awolowo.
The expansive hall brimmed with prayers, hymns, Bible readings and comforting messages from officiating ministers, choirs and congregants.
From early arrivals to the procession of political and social figures, the ceremony echoed a shared sense of loss and gratitude for the life and legacy of the deceased.
Segun Awolowo, grandson of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, passed on at 62.
Throughout the service, speakers paid glowing tributes to his character, humility and lifelong dedication to public service.
President Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, extended condolences to the Awolowo family.
He praised the deceased’s exceptional passion and commendable dedication in roles ranging from Special Assistant to the President to his tenure as Executive Director/CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.
I have mourned the loss of a child, and I know it is not a solitary grief,” he said.
“Segun served Nigeria with discipline and purpose. May his soul find eternal peace,” Tinubu prayed.
Senate President Akpabio described Awolowo as a bridge builder across the Niger and the land, recalling his humility and steady support over the years.
“There is an appointed time for each of us. Segun did his best and will be greatly missed,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu hailed the deceased as a bridge between history and the future, noting his devotion to duty and reputation as a pillar of his generation.
“Our hearts are heavy but full of gratitude for a remarkable life,” he added.
Governor Abiodun eulogised Awolowo for his patriotism and passion for developing Nigeria’s export sector.
He said the deceased championed local manufacturers and SMEs with infectious enthusiasm.
“Segun left a legacy of selflessness and service without compromise,” he said, describing him as an “amazing son, husband and father.”
In his closing remarks, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Ifedola Gabriel Okupevi, thanked President Tinubu, Akpabio, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the governors and other dignitaries for honouring the Awolowo family.
He prayed for God’s comfort and long life for all present, saying, “May we live long to fulfill our purpose.”
