Bayo Lawal, former Minister of Sports, 83, is dead

A former Minister of Sports and ex-Military Administrator of Benue State, retired Air Vice Marshal Bayo Lawal, is died.

Persecondnews reports that AVM Lawal, NAF/156, aged 83, died in his sleep in the early hours of Sunday, June 23, at his home.

Retired Air Commodore Sani Zakari, the Sergeant-at-Arms at the National Assembly, confirmed his demise, according to the daughter of the former minister, Mrs. Yinka Enahoro, who announced his funeral for Monday, June 24, 2024.

AVM Adebayo Hamed Lawal was born on September 14, 1941, in Offa, Kwara State. He attended Government College, Ibadan (1955–1962).

Among the pioneers, he joined the NAF in 1963 and underwent military pilot training in West Germany, graduating in 1964.

His postings included Commander, NAF Port Harcourt (1969–1970), Commander, Enugu Air Force Base, 1970–72;

Commander NAF Kano twice (1972–1973) and (1975–1977), and Air Officer Commanding HQ Tactical Air Command NAF Makurdi. (1977–1988). He was a very active and vibrant fighter pilot.

He was Commander, Nigerian Air Force Base, Makurdi, 1977–78, and later appointed Military Governor of Benue State in July 1978, holding the position until October 1979. At one time, he was Director of Air Faculty Command and Staff College Jaji.

He was later appointed Federal Minister of Youth and Sports.

Persecondnews recalls that Lawal, a devoted Muslim, transitioned into business and faith-based philanthropy following his retirement.

He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.