President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Dr. Christopher Kolade, describing the former diplomat, broadcaster, and corporate leader as one of Nigeria’s finest intellectuals and a symbol of integrity, patriotism, and service.
In a statement from the State House, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Kolade, who died at the age of 92, noting that the nation had lost “an inimitable broadcaster and boardroom guru who was one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures.”
The President hailed Dr. Kolade as a custodian of Nigeria’s corporate heritage, particularly in the areas of governance and human resource management. He noted that the late technocrat played a pivotal role in shaping modern management education through his association with the Lagos Business School. “He was among the finest of men — exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and with unimpeachable integrity,” President Tinubu said. “Dr. Kolade was not only a boardroom icon, serving as chief executive and later chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, but also a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance.”
President Tinubu praised Dr. Kolade’s record of distinguished public service, from his early days as a colonial-era education officer to his tenure as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation.
He also lauded Dr. Kolade’s humanitarian contributions through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, especially his philanthropic support for sickle cell patients, to whom he dedicated much of his personal resources. “Dr. Kolade’s passing is agonising, yet we must celebrate his life and legacy,” President Tinubu said. “He lived an exemplary life and immortalised himself through uncommon service to our nation and humanity. He will remain an inspiration for generations to come — a true Nigerian, selfless and resilient.”
The President extended his condolences to Dr. Kolade’s family, friends, and associates, praying that God Almighty grant his soul eternal rest.
