Christopher Kolade was exceptionally brilliant, Tinubu mourns elder statesman

President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of veteran broadcaster, diplomat, and corporate leader, Dr Christopher Kolade, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest intellectuals and a model of integrity.

In a personally signed tribute on Thursday, the President said he received the news of Dr Kolade’s death “with profound sadness,” noting that the nonagenarian left indelible marks in public service, education, and the corporate world.

“Dr Kolade 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,” Tinubu said.

The President described the late elder statesman as “exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and of unimpeachable integrity,” adding that his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance stood him out as a patriot.

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.

“He served Nigeria dutifully, with honesty and great dedication. 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,” he added.

Tinubu also praised Kolade’s humanitarian contributions, particularly through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, which supported sickle cell patients and promoted education and ethical leadership

He said, “I recall 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,” the President added, praying for God to grant him eternal rest.

Dr Kolade, a former Chairman and Chief Executive of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, died peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92, according to a family statement issued on Thursday.

Born in Erin-Oke, Osun State, in 1932, Dr Kolade is survived by his wife, Beatrice, children, and grandchildren.