The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of Olabode Agusto, founder of Nigeria’s first and foremost credit rating company, Agusto & Co., describing him as a quintessential analyst, who charted the path for the growth of ratings and economic risk analysis sector in the country.

The governor, in a statement, said the news of the passing of Agusto was shocking, as he was a leading light and a pioneer in Nigeria’s business information management space, particularly in industry research, credit risk management, and portfolio analysis/rating validation.

According to him, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of my friend and brother, Olabode Agusto, a quintessential analyst, who led the way in credit risk management in the country and groomed many young professionals in the field, paving the way for the growth and development of the niche.

“A thorough-bred professional, he recorded impressive growth after setting up Agusto & Co. in 1992, building an impeccable reputation as the foremost credit rating business out of Nigeria, nay Africa.

“He was hardworking and honest, traits that have seen him set the pace and lead the industry over these years. His knack for excellence stood him out and made him the industry’s gold standard.”

He continued: “I mourn the passing of the analysts’ analyst, a standard bearer and indeed, a remarkable gentleman.

“He will be fondly remembered for his wit, intelligence, and knack for excellence, qualities that have stood his business out over these past 30 years.

“I commiserate with the Agusto family, management and staff of Agusto & Co., associates, friends and well-wishers and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”