Omotayo Adigun
Nigeria has lost one of its most respected elder statesmen and moral compasses, Dr. Christopher Kolade, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.
His family confirmed the news in a statement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for his long life of impact and integrity.
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the family said in part.
Born on December 28, 1932, Dr. Kolade’s life embodied excellence across several sectors — broadcasting, academia, diplomacy, and corporate leadership.
A revered broadcaster, Dr. Kolade began his career at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where he rose through the ranks to become Director-General, shaping the nation’s broadcasting standards during Nigeria’s formative years of independence.
Beyond the media, Kolade made a mark in the corporate world as Chief Executive of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where his leadership became a model of ethics and transparency in the private sector.
He later served the country as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, earning widespread respect for his diplomatic grace and unwavering patriotism.
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Dr. Kolade was also a prominent academic voice, serving as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Pan-Atlantic University and Chairman of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.
A champion of good governance and moral leadership, Kolade was often described as “Nigeria’s conscience in a suit” — a man who preached integrity not only through words but through a lifetime of consistent example.
He is survived by his wife, Beatrice Kolade, children, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.