Former Lagos State governor Akinwunmi Ambode has described the late Bode Agusto as a true icon of Lagos, recalling how he chaired an economic advisory committee without asking for compensation.
Mr Agusto, foremost economist and founder of Nigeria’s first credit rating agency, Agusto & Co, died on Thursday at the age of 68.
Commending Agusto for the legacy he left behind, Mr Ambode said in a tribute: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bode Agusto, an outstanding accountant, banker, mentor and a true icon of Lagos State. His legacy as an eminent citizen of Lagos State and a distinguished Nigerian who was unrepentantly committed to our nation’s economic development will forever be etched in the annals of our history.
“Bode Agusto was not only a financial maestro but also a dedicated public servant, who contributed significantly to the development of Lagos State and Nigeria. His contributions to the fields of accounting, finance and economics were quite remarkable and he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s economic policies. His track record in the private sector and public service earned him the national award of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).
“As Lagos State Governor in January 2017, I’d determined that Lagos State had reached a point where we needed to bring independent perspectives from the private sector to work with the government to jointly plan the future economy of Lagos State and re-engineer its business environment for global competitiveness and enhance opportunities for our people.
Bode Agusto, founder of Nigeria’s first credit rating firm, dies at 68
Bode Agusto appointed head of Lagos economic advisory committee
“I consequently set up the Lagos State Economic Advisory Committee, a 12-member private sector-dominated advisory body that comprised some of the best brains in our country and, in determining the chairmanship of the strategic committee, I turned to no other person than the late Bode Agusto and he graciously accepted unconditionally.
“The Committee served out their assignment meritoriously without demanding financial compensation for themselves. Such was the patriotism and selflessness that defined the man Bode Agusto.”
Ambode condoled with the governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Agusto’s family, loved ones professional colleagues and the entire people of Lagos State.
“Let us honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service, dedication and excellence,” he added.
