By Peter Omopo | Lagos | October 9, 2025
Nigeria has lost one of its most respected elder statesmen, Dr. Christopher Kolade, a veteran broadcaster, corporate leader, diplomat, and advocate of ethical leadership, who passed away at the age of 92.
His family announced his death in a statement on Thursday, confirming that the former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom 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 said in the statement.
A Life of Service and Integrity
Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, to an Anglican missionary father, Dr. Kolade distinguished himself across broadcasting, diplomacy, academia, and corporate governance.
He attended Government College, Ibadan, and later studied at Fourah Bay College, Freetown, Sierra Leone, where he completed his higher education.
Kolade began his professional journey in broadcasting, where his talent and discipline earned him rapid recognition. He rose through the ranks to become Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where he championed professionalism and public trust in the media.
Corporate and Diplomatic Excellence
Following a successful media career, Dr. Kolade transitioned into the corporate world, serving as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc. He became a symbol of integrity and reform, ensuring that Cadbury maintained high ethical and governance standards during his tenure.
His exceptional record later took him into public service, where he represented Nigeria as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. In this capacity, he was widely praised for his diplomacy, statesmanship, and unwavering commitment to the nation’s image abroad.
Passion for Education and Leadership
After retiring from diplomatic service, Dr. Kolade devoted himself 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 in Lagos.
He also served on the university’s Governing Council, becoming Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, and later Chancellor of McPherson University in Ogun State.
Champion of Integrity
Throughout his life, Dr. Kolade remained deeply committed to promoting ethical standards in business and public life. He chaired several organisations known for their integrity-driven missions, including Integrity Organisation Ltd GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd GTE.
Known for his calm intellect, moral authority, and lifelong dedication to service, Dr. Kolade leaves behind an enduring legacy of leadership, faith, and integrity.
Funeral arrangements, according to the family, will be announced in due course.
