Ex-Nigerian High Commissioner to UK, Dies at 92

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By Alofe Ayomoses

Renowned diplomat, broadcaster and statesman, Dr. Christopher Kolade, has died at the age of 92.

His family announced his passing in a statement on Wednesday, October 8, describing him as a man who lived a life of “faith and service.”

“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the statement read.

According to the family, the elder statesman died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Distinguished Career in Broadcasting and Public Service

Born in 1932, Dr. Kolade’s legacy spans over six decades of service in broadcasting, diplomacy, corporate leadership, and academia.

He served as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) between 1960 and 1978, a period that shaped the foundation of Nigeria’s public broadcasting system.

Kolade obtained his university education at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, after completing his early schooling in Nigeria.

Corporate and Diplomatic Leadership

A consummate professional, Kolade was also a former Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he championed ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility.

He later served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2002 to 2007, representing the country with distinction.

Academic Contributions and Later Life

Before his diplomatic posting, Kolade lectured at the Lagos Business School (LBS) between 1995 and 2002, where he taught corporate governance, leadership, and human resource management.

After returning from the UK, he rejoined the LBS faculty and, in 2009, became Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Pan-Atlantic University, the parent institution of LBS.

Until his passing, he served as Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun State.

National Honours and Professional Recognition

Dr. Kolade was conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2000.

He was also a Fellow of several professional bodies, including:

Institute of Directors
Society of Nigerian Broadcasters
Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) – where he served as President (1985–1988)
Institute of Personnel Management (IPM) – where he was President (1988–1994)

A devout Christian and respected mentor to many, Dr. Kolade will be remembered for his integrity, humility, and lifelong commitment to nation-building.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.