By Correspondent in Abuja.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Dr Christopher Kolade, describing the nonagenarian broadcaster, diplomat, and boardroom icon as one of Nigeria’s most treasured intellectuals and moral compasses.
In a statement personally signed by the President on Thursday, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr Kolade, aged 92, whom he described as “an inimitable broadcaster and boardroom guru, and one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures.”
According to President Tinubu, Dr Kolade’s life embodied brilliance, diligence, and integrity.
He recalled his numerous contributions to nation-building through leadership in reputable institutions such as the Lagos Business School, and his exemplary service as former Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc.
The president said: I received with profound sadness, the news of the passing of the inimitable Dr Christopher Kolade, a broadcaster and boardroom guru who is one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures.
“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.
“He was among the finest of men. He was exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and had unimpeachable integrity.
“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, whether in the boardroom, on panels, or public office.
“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.
“He will remain an inspiration for us and for many generations. He was a representation of the true Nigerian, selfless and resilient. May God Almighty, whom he served so faithfully, grant him eternal rest.”
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
