Policy think-tank and strategic development body, the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission has announced the death of its head of programmes, Abiodun Oladipo.

Mr Oladipo, who also served as a governance advisor in the commission, died on Thursday aged 44.

Announcing his passing on Friday via its official Facebook page, the commission said the official died on Thursday following a short illness.

“With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our valued colleague, Mr. Abiodun Oladipo (2nd January 1982 – 9th April 2026), after a brief illness. He was 44 years old,” the post read.

Extolling Mr Oladipo’s performance and contribution over the last decade, the commission noted that the deceased employee played a key role in helping the organisation realise its regional integration agenda.

“As head of programmes, he tirelessly crisscrossed the six South-West states, forging connections and building bridges that advanced our collective vision for regional integration and development,” the commission said.

“Beyond his professional contributions, Biodun was deeply admirable and served as a mentor to many of us. His guidance, warmth, and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him,” it added.

The DAWN Commission management and staff expressed sympathies to the deceased’s family members.

The commission noted that Mr Oladipo would be laid to rest in a private burial ceremony.