Nigeria has lost one of its most respected elder statesmen, veteran broadcaster and diplomat, Dr Christopher Kolade, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.
His family confirmed the news in a statement released on Thursday, expressing gratitude for his long life of service, faith, and impact.
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the statement read.
Born on December 28, 1932, Dr Kolade was widely known for his strong values, uprightness, and tireless advocacy for ethics, integrity, and good governance.
He started his career in broadcasting, rising to become Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where he played a key role in shaping the country’s early media landscape. His voice and leadership in public communication earned him respect nationwide.
Later in his career, Kolade served Nigeria in various high-level roles, including as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, where he represented the country with distinction.
He was also an academic, holding teaching and leadership roles in several institutions, including Lagos Business School, where he helped guide future leaders on principles of corporate governance and ethical leadership.
Throughout his life, Kolade was deeply committed to public service and nation-building. He was widely regarded as a man of integrity, often speaking out on issues of corruption, leadership failure, and the need for accountability in both public and private sectors.
In 2012, former President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him to head the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), a federal initiative aimed at using oil subsidy savings to develop infrastructure and create jobs. Kolade later stepped down from the role, reportedly due to concerns about transparency and government commitment to reform.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the country as Nigerians remember Kolade’s contributions to media, diplomacy, education, and national development. Many described him as a moral compass in a time when the country desperately needed voices of truth and courage.
He is survived by family, friends, and many mentees who benefited from his wisdom and example.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
