Nigeria is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished statesmen, Dr Christopher Kolade, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, at the age of 92. The announcement was made by his family, who described him as a man whose life was marked by “faith and service” and expressed gratitude for “God’s abundant blessings” throughout his remarkable journey.
In a statement released Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late broadcaster, diplomat, and boardroom guru, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures” and “among the finest of men.”
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of the inimitable Dr Christopher Kolade,” President Tinubu said. “He was exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and had unimpeachable integrity.”
Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. He began his education at Government College, Ibadan, before moving on to Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone. He launched his professional career in broadcasting and rose to become Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation.
Kolade’s transition from public service to the corporate world was equally impactful. He served as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he became known for ethical leadership and corporate reforms. His reputation for transparency and accountability extended into diplomacy when he served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
“He was a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance,” President Tinubu noted. “From working as a colonial-era education officer to public office and the boardroom, Dr Kolade left ineffaceable stamps of distinction in every endeavour.”
Dr Kolade also had a profound influence in academia, especially in the fields of corporate governance and leadership. He taught at the Lagos Business School and the School of Media & Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, where he also served as Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council member. He was later Chancellor of McPherson University in Ogun State.
His passion for ethics in business led him to chair organisations such as the Integrity Organisation Ltd GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd GTE. Beyond professional achievements, Kolade dedicated his later years to humanitarian causes, particularly through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, which supported health initiatives including care for sickle cell patients.
“I recall his many humanitarian interventions,” President Tinubu added. “Dr Kolade’s passing is agonising, yet we must celebrate his life and legacy. He lived an exemplary life and immortalised himself in his uncommon service to our nation and humanity.”
President Tinubu concluded his tribute by describing Dr Kolade as “a representation of the true Nigerian, selfless and resilient,” and prayed for his eternal rest.
Dr Kolade is survived by his family, admirers across generations, and a legacy that continues to inspire leaders in public service, business, and academia.
