Abiodun Hails Awolowo-Dosumu at 78, Celebrates Legacy of Service and Excellence

The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has congratulated the Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation and Chairman of African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, on the occasion of her 78th birthday, describing her life as a testament to divine grace, excellence and enduring national service.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Friday, Abiodun said the milestone was a moment of joy not only for the Awolowo family but also for the people of Ogun State, who consider her a priceless heritage figure.

He described Ambassador Awolowo-Dosumu’s life as one marked by distinction across professional, diplomatic and public service roles over several decades.

“As a government and a people, we are blessed to have Ambassador (Dr) Awolowo Dosumu around us. She radiates warmth and is such a lovely personality to be with,” the governor said.

“At 78, she is our great treasure in Ogun State, being the only surviving direct link to our Papa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo of blessed memory.”

Abiodun thanked God for her distinguished career as an occupational health physician, her long-standing leadership as Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation since 1992, and her service as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands between 2000 and 2003.

He noted that whether serving as Chair of the Board of Management of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (2013–2015), Delegate to the 2014 National Constitutional Conference, Co-Chairman and later Chairman of African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, she had consistently demonstrated excellence and administrative competence.

The governor further highlighted her roles as Vice-Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Committee 4 (1988–89), Member of the International Committee of the Council on Foundations, Vice-Chairman of the Conference of States Parties, Chairman of the African Group of States Parties, and Vice-Chairman of the Yoruba Unity Forum, describing her as a voice of courage and distinction.

“At 78, Dr Awolowo-Dosumu continues to rally distinguished intellectuals and leaders from around the world to engage issues around sustainable development, gender equity, and the liberation of the African continent from poverty and underdevelopment,” Abiodun added.

He particularly commended her chairmanship of the Nigerian Tribune, describing the newspaper as a publication of record that continues to grow from strength to strength under her leadership.

The governor prayed that God would grant her continued good health and long life, affirming that Ogun State remains extremely proud of her enduring legacy.