President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Christopher Kolade, describing the late broadcaster, diplomat, and boardroom icon as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished intellectuals and moral compasses.
In a heartfelt condolence message on Thursday, President Tinubu said Dr. Kolade, who died at the age of 92, was an exemplary patriot, a man of unimpeachable integrity, and one of the finest Nigerians of his generation
.“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of the inimitable Dr. Christopher Kolade, a broadcaster and boardroom guru who is one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures,” the President said.
The President extolled Dr. Kolade’s lifelong commitment to excellence, integrity, and nation-building, noting his immense contributions to Nigeria’s public and private sectors.
“Dr. Kolade was a custodian of our enterprise history, especially concerning corporate governance and human resources management. He was a principal figure in reputable institutions like the Lagos Business School,” P
resident Tinubu stated.“He was among the finest of men—exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, and diligent. Dr. Kolade was not only a boardroom icon, serving as one-time chief executive and chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, but also a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance.”
President Tinubu further highlighted Dr. Kolade’s distinguished service to Nigeria in various capacities, including as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, where he displayed uncommon dedication and honour.
“He served Nigeria dutifully, with honesty and great dedication. From working as a colonial-era education officer to his diplomatic and corporate leadership roles, Dr. Kolade left ineffaceable stamps of distinction in every endeavour,” the President noted.
Recalling Dr. Kolade’s philanthropic work through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, President Tinubu praised his compassion and generosity, particularly his support for people living with sickle cell disease.
“I recall his many humanitarian interventions, especially his support for sickle cell patients, a cause to which he donated a chunk of his earnings,” the President said.
President Tinubu described Dr. Kolade’s passing as a painful loss to the nation but urged Nigerians to celebrate his remarkable life of service, excellence, and faith.“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 stated.
“He will remain an inspiration for us and for many generations. He represented the true Nigerian—selfless, resilient, and upright. May God Almighty, whom he served so faithfully, grant him eternal rest.”
