The Extraordinary Life, Legacy Of Olusegun Awolowo Jr
By Alofe Ayomoses
The life of Olusegun Awolowo Jr reads like a powerful blend of history, destiny and personal resolve. Born into grief yet raised within one of Nigeria’s most respected political dynasties, he grew into a national figure who shaped export policy, deepened regional trade, and carried forward the Awolowo legacy with quiet strength and deep conviction.
His birth marked the beginning of a life shaped by both tragedy and hope
His story began under unusual circumstances. He was born posthumously, arriving two months after his father, Segun Awolowo Sr, died in a fatal car crash in 1963. His birth became a symbol of continuity for a grieving family and a country that looked up to the Awolowo name for leadership and moral direction. Carrying his father’s name, he became a living reminder of both loss and resilience.
His childhood placed him inside the heart of one of Nigeria’s greatest political families
His upbringing was guided by his aunt, Mrs Tola Oyediran, daughter of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Growing up in her home meant growing up in the very centre of political discipline, philosophical conversations and nation-building ideals. Many say this environment shaped his calm manner, intellectual approach and lifelong commitment to public service.
His early education connected him with elite institutions and influential figures
His schooling introduced him early to Nigeria’s leadership class. He attended primary school with Dolapo Osinbajo, wife of former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, forming childhood bonds with families that would later occupy major political positions. He later moved on to Igbobi College and Government College Ibadan, two of Nigeria’s most respected secondary schools known for producing leaders across sectors.
His legal training prepared him for a career that blended law, governance and diplomacy
His academic journey took him to Ogun State University, now Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he studied law before joining the Nigerian Bar in 1989. He trained under the chambers of legal giants like Abayomi Sogbesan and GOK Ajayi, an experience that sharpened his legal mind and later influenced his administrative style in public service.
His entry into government saw him serve two presidents at the highest levels
His early political career placed him close to power. He served under Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua as Special Assistant, handling legal and institutional matters that shaped national policy. Those who worked with him often described him as calm, methodical and deeply patriotic.
His leadership at NEPC made him one of the strongest voices for export diversification
His appointment as Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) remains one of the most defining phases of his life. He was first appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013 and reappointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, making him one of the rare technocrats trusted across political lines.
His biggest idea at NEPC was the “Zero Oil Plan” — an ambitious diversification strategy designed to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on crude oil by boosting non-oil exports to earn 30 billion dollars annually. This plan marked a turning point in Nigeria’s export strategy and is still referenced in policy circles today.
His administrative roles in the FCT added another layer to his public service journey
Awolowo’s time in the Federal Capital Territory Administration saw him take charge of major departments. He served as Secretary for Social Development and later as Secretary of Transport, overseeing critical sectors that affected millions of residents.
His work helped launch Nigeria’s largest diversification push across sectors
His export agenda extended beyond numbers. Under his leadership, NEPC championed value-added exports in agriculture, fashion, manufacturing, technology and services. He also facilitated a strategic partnership with Shoprite to distribute Nigerian products across African markets — a major breakthrough for local producers.
His regional influence grew with the signing of a one billion dollar trade MoU
His commitment to Africa-wide integration became more visible in 2018 when he led the signing of a one billion dollar Memorandum of Understanding between NEPC, AFREXIM and NEXIM during the first Intra-African Trade Fair. This move accelerated efforts to boost intra-African trade and positioned Nigeria as a key driver of regional economic cooperation.
His election as ECOWAS TPO President sealed his status as a continental voice
His peers across West Africa recognised his leadership when he was unanimously elected President of the ECOWAS Trade Promotion Organisations in 2021. This role solidified his influence as one of the most respected trade diplomacy figures in the region.
His later years returned him to private legal practice
After leaving government service, Awolowo returned to legal practice, showing a career that moved smoothly between public duty and private professionalism. His work continued to reflect his lifelong belief in service, discipline and national development.
His family ties kept him grounded and connected to a strong legacy
His personal life remained deeply rooted in Nigerian history. As grandson of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the nationalist, thinker and political icon, he carried a name that commanded respect. Yet he built his own identity through work, integrity and a quiet lifestyle. He also married into another notable family and raised children who continued impactful paths, including his daughter Seun, who runs a major NGO focused on girl-child education.
His legacy continues to inspire conversations about service and national duty
His death marked the end of a life that touched law, public administration, trade diplomacy and family heritage. For many Nigerians, his story is a reminder that national progress is driven not only by loud political voices but by disciplined technocrats who work steadily behind the scenes.
Olusegun Awolowo Jr lived a life defined by purpose, responsibility and a deep belief in Nigeria’s future. His legacy remains a guide for a generation seeking direction in service, leadership and nation-building.
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