President Tinubu mourns former minister Ebun Oyagbola

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences over the passing of Mrs. Adenike Ebunoluwa Oyagbola, Nigeria’s first female minister of cabinet rank and a distinguished educationist and diplomat. She passed away at the age of 94.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his sympathies to the Oyagbola family, as well as the government and people of Ogun State, describing her as a “trailblazer and a beacon of inspiration for women in Nigeria.”

“As the nation’s first female minister of cabinet rank, she broke barriers and paved the way for countless women to aspire to and achieve leadership roles in the country,” President Tinubu stated.

Mrs. Oyagbola served as Nigeria’s Minister of National Planning from 1979 to 1983, playing a key role in implementing the country’s Fourth Development Plan, which laid the foundation for economic growth and national progress.

The President also highlighted her contributions to youth development, arts, and culture, noting that her impact, particularly in the creative industry, would be long remembered.

“In an era where threats to ethical standards are increasing, we shall miss Mrs. Oyagbola’s steadfast commitment to these principles. Our nation reveres her place in its history, and we will deeply feel her absence,” he added.

President Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and urged her family to find solace in her enduring legacy of service and impact.