Dr. Christopher Kolade Passes on at 92

On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu expressed heartfelt condolences for the late Dr. Christopher Kolade, honoring him as “a symbol of integrity, patriotism, and excellence,” whose life represented the highest ideals of leadership and service in Nigeria. Dr. Kolade, often referred to as “Mr. Integrity,” passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Wednesday. He was recognized as a teacher, broadcaster, corporate leader, diplomat, mentor, and ethical guide.

In a statement he personally signed, President Tinubu conveyed his deep sorrow upon learning of Kolade’s passing, referring to him as “one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures and a guardian of our business history.” He praised Kolade as an exceptional individual, characterized by brilliance, statesmanship, diligence, and unwavering integrity. As a former Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Kolade was not only a business icon but also a devoted patriot and an advocate for transparency and accountability in governance.

The President highlighted Kolade’s extensive public service career, which spanned from the colonial period to Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to the nation’s development and ethical standards. He noted that Kolade’s contributions, from his role as a colonial education officer to serving as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK and Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, left an indelible mark in every position he held.

Tinubu also commended Kolade’s philanthropic efforts through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, particularly his lifelong commitment to promoting ethical leadership and supporting individuals living with sickle-cell disease. “He was not driven by wealth or fame but by the desire to make a difference. His passing is painful, yet it is a moment to celebrate his legacy. He dedicated himself to serving our nation and humanity, embodying the qualities of a true Nigerian—selfless, resilient, and faith-driven. May God, whom he served so faithfully, grant him eternal peace,” the President stated.

Dr. Kolade, who died on October 8, 2025, was a distinguished figure who served as the Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK, and the first Chairman of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P). He was also a prominent advocate for ethics, leadership, and corporate governance at the Lagos Business School.

In Osun State, Oba Ayodeji Akintola, the Alua of Erin-Oke, remarked that the community had lost a rare individual whose life was dedicated to service and moral integrity. Speaking on behalf of the Erin-Oke community, the monarch expressed his sorrow, noting his plans to consult with Kolade about the town’s development before learning of his death. “This is a deep loss for me; he had promised to assist us in our development initiatives. He assured me that I could reach out to him for any needs—be it a school, hospital, or federal project. He was like a father to me and a source of pride for Erin-Oke. Only God knows why this happened,” Oba Akintola said.

Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. He received his education at Government College in Ibadan and later at Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The Kolade family released a statement following his death, expressing gratitude for his remarkable life of faith and service and acknowledging the blessings he brought to their lives.