President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran broadcaster, diplomat, and corporate leader, Dr. Christopher Kolade, describing him as one of Nigeria’s greatest intellectual and moral treasures.
In a tribute shared via presidential aide Bayo Onanuga on Thursday, President Tinubu paid glowing homage to the late elder statesman, lauding his integrity, brilliance, and decades of service to the nation.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
He praised Kolade, who passed away at the age of 92, as a custodian of Nigeria’s corporate and governance legacy, noting his immense contributions to the Lagos Business School and other reputable institutions.
“Dr. Kolade was not only a boardroom icon, serving as one-time chief executive and chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, but he was also a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance,” the President said.
Tinubu also highlighted Kolade’s exemplary public service, recalling his roles as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).
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He further commended Kolade’s humanitarian work through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, particularly his dedication to supporting sickle cell patients, a cause to which he reportedly donated a significant portion of his earnings.
“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,” Tinubu noted.
The President described Kolade as a model Nigerian whose selflessness, integrity, and resilience would continue to inspire generations to come. He prayed for God to grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort his family.