Nigeria has lost one of its finest statesmen and moral beacons, Dr. Christopher Kolade, fondly remembered as Mr. Integrity. The veteran broadcaster, accomplished business leader, diplomat, and teacher passed away peacefully in the early hours of Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the age of 93.

Born in 1932 in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. He attended Government College, Ibadan, before proceeding to Fourah Bay College in Freetown, Sierra Leone, where he completed his higher education.

Dr. Kolade’s career spanned broadcasting, business, diplomacy, and academia. He served as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and later became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cadbury Nigeria Plc.

A distinguished diplomat, Kolade also served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, representing the country with exceptional grace and credibility.

In academia, he was a respected faculty member at the Lagos Business School (LBS), where he taught Corporate Governance and Human Resources Management, as well as at the School of Media and Communication (SMC), where he lectured on Leadership and Conflict Management. Both schools are part of Pan-Atlantic University, where he also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council. Additionally, he was Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun State.

Dr. Kolade was a leading advocate for ethical business practices and corporate integrity. He chaired several notable organisations, including Integrity Organisation Ltd. GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd. GTE, promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s corporate sector.

Widely respected for his intellect, humility, and moral rectitude, Christopher Kolade leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, leadership, and integrity.