By Obinna Uballa
Nigeria has lost one of its most respected public figures, Dr. Christopher Kolade, CON – the revered diplomat, broadcaster, and corporate leader – who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.
His family announced his passing in a statement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for “his incredible life of faith and service” and for “God’s abundant blessings” throughout his long and impactful journey.
Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. His life spanned education, diplomacy, business, and public service, marked by a reputation for integrity, humility, and excellence.
A graduate of Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and an alumnus of Government College, Ibadan, Kolade began his career in education as a colonial-era Education Officer before moving into broadcasting. He rose through the ranks to become the Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where he set new standards for professionalism and ethical media practice.
Kolade later transitioned into the corporate world, serving as Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where his commitment to good governance and ethical leadership became widely admired in Nigeria’s business community.
In recognition of his exceptional service, he was appointed Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, a role in which he distinguished himself as an articulate and principled diplomat, strengthening Nigeria’s international reputation.
Beyond public office, Kolade was deeply involved in academia. He lectured in Corporate Governance and Human Resource Management at the Lagos Business School (LBS) and in Leadership and Conflict Management at the School of Media and Communication (SMC), both part of Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos.
He also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, and until his passing, was the Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun State.
