Tinubu Pays Tribute To Late Christopher Kolade

President Bola Tinubu said he is saddened by the death of Dr Christopher Kolade, the renowned broadcaster, corporate leader, and diplomat who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 93.

The family announced Kolade’s death in a statement on Thursday.

In a statement on Thursday, Tinubu described the deceased as “one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures” and “a custodian of our enterprise history, especially concerning corporate governance and human resources management.”

“Dr Kolade, 92, was a custodian of our enterprise history, especially concerning corporate governance and human resources management. He was a principal figure in reputable institutions like the Lagos Business School,” the president said.

Tinubu praised Kolade’s exceptional qualities, stating, “He was among the finest of men. He was exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and had unimpeachable integrity.”

“From working as a colonial-era education officer to serving as Nigeria’s high commissioner to the United Kingdom and director-general of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, Dr Kolade left ineffaceable stamps of distinction in every endeavour, whether in the boardroom, on panels, or public office,” Tinubu noted.

He particularly commended Kolade’s service as one-time chief executive and chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, describing him as “not only a boardroom icon” but also “a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance.”

Tinubu recalled Kolade’s humanitarian work, including “his many humanitarian interventions through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, especially his support for sickle cell patients, a cause to which he donated a chunk 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.”

“He will remain an inspiration for us and for many generations. He was a representation of the true Nigerian, selfless and resilient,” Tinubu added.

Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Kolade served as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, Managing Director and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2002 to 2007.

He also taught at the Lagos Business School and served as Pro-Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University and Chancellor of McPherson University.

Kolade is survived by his wife, Beatrice Egochukwu Ukogu, and two sons.