Former Diplomat and Statesman Dr. Christopher Kolade Dies at 92

Nigeria has lost one of its most revered elder statesmen, Dr. Christopher Kolade, who passed away at the age of 92.

His family announced his death in a statement on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, saying, “We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings.”

Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Dr. Kolade lived a life defined by integrity, excellence, and service — spanning broadcasting, diplomacy, corporate leadership, and academia.

The son of an Anglican missionary, Kolade attended Government College, Ibadan, before proceeding to Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone. His distinguished career earned him honorary doctorates from the University of Sierra Leone (1976) and McPherson University (2016).

He began his professional journey in broadcasting, rising to become Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). His transition into the private sector saw him serve as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he earned a reputation for ethical leadership.

Dr. Kolade’s exemplary service led to his appointment as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, a role he performed with distinction, strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties abroad.

After his diplomatic tenure, he joined the Lagos Business School (LBS) and the School of Media and Communication (SMC) of Pan-Atlantic University, where he taught Corporate Governance, Human Resource Management, and Leadership. He also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council.

Beyond academia, Dr. Kolade played pivotal roles in numerous professional and ethical bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Management, the Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, the International Institute for Communications, and the World Association for Christian Communication.

He was also a passionate advocate for integrity in business, serving as Chairman of Integrity Organization Ltd. GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd. GTE.

In recognition of his lifelong service to humanity, he received several honours, including the prestigious Order of St. Augustine medal from the Archbishop of Canterbury. In 2012, he was appointed by then-President Goodluck Jonathan as Chairman of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) Board.

Dr. Christopher Kolade is remembered as a model of humility, faith, and ethical leadership — a man whose life left an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s public and private institutions.