Yemi Obafemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to veteran broadcaster, diplomat, and statesman, Dr Christopher Kolade, who passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.
Dr Kolade’s family announced his passing in a statement, noting that the renowned broadcaster died peacefully.
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service; and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the family said.
Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Dr Kolade had a distinguished career spanning broadcasting, diplomacy, academia, and corporate governance.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Presidency, President Tinubu described Dr Kolade as a custodian of Nigeria’s enterprise history and a principal figure in corporate governance and human resource management.
“He was among the finest of men. He was exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and had unimpeachable integrity,” Tinubu said.
The President hailed Dr Kolade’s remarkable career, recalling his service as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, and Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).
“Dr Kolade was a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance,” Tinubu noted.
“He served Nigeria dutifully, with honesty and great dedication. From working as a colonial-era education officer to representing Nigeria abroad, he left ineffaceable stamps of distinction in every endeavour.”
Tinubu also praised Kolade’s humanitarian efforts through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, particularly his support for sickle cell patients, a cause he personally funded.
“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.
“He will remain an inspiration for us and for many generations. He was a representation of the true Nigerian, selfless and resilient. May God Almighty, whom he served so faithfully, grant him eternal rest,” Tinubu said.
