By DAYO ADESULU
Family Announces Peaceful Passing of Nigeria’s Icon of Integrity
Veteran broadcaster, diplomat, and respected elder statesman, Dr Christopher Kolade, has passed away at the age of 92.
A statement from his family on Thursday confirmed that the former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc died peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the family statement read in part.
Dr Kolade’s death marks the end of a remarkable era for Nigeria’s media, business, and diplomatic communities — a man widely regarded as one of the most ethical voices in public service and leadership.
A Life of Service and Integrity
Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Christopher Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. His early life was defined by discipline, humility, and a strong sense of moral duty — values that would later shape his career and public reputation.
He attended Government College, Ibadan, before proceeding to Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone, where he earned his higher education and began to develop his passion for communication and leadership.
Kolade’s journey into public service began with broadcasting. He joined the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and rose through the ranks to become Director-General, where his commitment to professionalism and ethical journalism left a lasting legacy.
Corporate Leadership and Ethical Reforms
After his pioneering work in broadcasting, Dr Kolade transitioned into the corporate sector, joining Cadbury Nigeria Plc. He later became the company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, where he was credited with introducing strong corporate governance reforms and setting new standards for business transparency in Nigeria.
Colleagues and business leaders often described him as a man who “walked his talk” — a leader who valued honesty over popularity and integrity over profit.
In recognition of his contributions to ethical leadership, Dr Kolade later chaired the Integrity Organisation Ltd GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd GTE, two institutions that have championed accountability and corporate ethics across Nigeria’s private and public sectors.
Diplomatic Excellence and National Service
Dr Kolade’s service to Nigeria extended beyond business and academia. He was appointed Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, where he distinguished himself as a firm but diplomatic representative of the country’s interests.
During his tenure, he strengthened bilateral ties between Nigeria and the UK, while promoting Nigeria’s image abroad as a country committed to good governance and responsible leadership.
His calm, articulate, and principled approach to diplomacy earned him admiration both at home and in the international community.
Academic and Leadership Mentorship
Even after decades of service in government and business, Dr Kolade remained deeply committed to education and leadership development.
He taught Corporate Governance and Human Resources Management at the Lagos Business School, and Leadership and Conflict Management at the School of Media and Communication, both part of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU).
Kolade also served on the Governing Council of Pan-Atlantic University, where he was later appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman. Beyond PAU, he was also Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun State, where he continued to mentor young Nigerians and advocate for leadership founded on ethics and service.
Legacy of Faith and Public Service
Dr Kolade’s career was guided by his strong Christian faith and commitment to national development. As a preacher, teacher, and public figure, he often emphasized integrity as the foundation of true leadership.
Many Nigerians remember him as “Mr Integrity,” a title that reflected his lifelong dedication to transparency and truth. He was one of the few public figures whose name became synonymous with ethical leadership in Nigeria’s often turbulent political and corporate climate.
His life’s work inspired generations of journalists, diplomats, and business leaders who continue to uphold the principles he embodied.
Tributes Pour In
Since news of his death broke, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and abroad. Political leaders, corporate executives, and religious figures have all described Dr Kolade as a national treasure who lived a life worthy of emulation.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
As Nigeria mourns the loss of one of its finest ambassadors of integrity, the legacy of Dr Christopher Kolade — broadcaster, diplomat, teacher, and moral compass — will endure in the hearts of those he inspired.
