By Victor Lewis
Senator Ede Dafinone representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly has described as personal to to him, the demise of Olusegun Awolowo Jr, grandson of late sage and great nationalist, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Dafinone who, in a condolence message to the family, expressed great shock for the untimely death of the former
Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), stressing that his loss was personal to him.
He recalled how he and the deceased became close friends many years ago, adding that he was a visionary leader, who was dedicated and deeply committed to patriotism.
“I am shocked to hear the news of the passing of Olusegun Awolowo Jr., a resourceful lawyer and grandson of the late nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“His death, announced by the Awolowo family on Thursday, is a painful loss not only to his family but also to all who knew him and appreciated his remarkable contributions to national development.
“The passing of Segun is a personal loss to me. Our paths crossed in the course of national service, and through years of close collaboration, we became friends. Segun was an exceptional public servant—visionary, dedicated, and deeply patriotic.
“I worked closely with him during his tenure as Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from 2013 to 2021, while I served as a Director in NEXIM Bank and Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Group (MANEG).
“What began as a professional relationship grew into a meaningful friendship built on mutual respect and shared commitment to Nigeria’s economic progress”, Dafinone recalled.
According to him, the deceased contributed greatly to the growth of national economy, adding that “His leadership at NEPC and his tireless work in promoting Nigeria’s non-oil export agenda left an indelible mark on the nation’s economic landscape. He carried himself with humility, warmth, and brilliance, qualities that endeared him to colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him”.
Dafinone prayed “God grant his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss, and may the soul of Segun Awolowo Jr. find eternal rest.”
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