Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade

A Tribute to Dr Christopher Kolade

By Prof. Lere Baale
President & Chairman of Council
Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy.

It is with deep sorrow and profound gratitude that we reflect on the life of Dr Christopher Olusola Kolade, whose footsteps echoed with dignity, integrity, and service. Though words fall short to describe a life so whole and rich, it is fitting that we pause, remember, and celebrate one of Nigeria’s most honourable sons. He was supportive of our culture of Integrity in Pfizer and was readily available to render support to the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy at anytime.



The Life of a Statesman and Scholar

Born on December 28, 1932, in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Dr Kolade’s journey was never one of complacency. He pursued education, first in Nigeria and later at Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone, equipping himself with the tools to serve his generation and generations to come.

His trajectory traversed many fields: from education to broadcasting, corporate leadership, diplomacy, and finally mentorship and scholarship. He served as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Yet even as he held high offices, he remained a teacher at heart. After his diplomatic service, he returned to academia, lecturing in corporate governance, leadership, and human resource management, primarily at Lagos Business School (LBS).

Those who knew Dr Kolade knew him as a man less interested in acclaim than in character. He was known for integrity, humility, civility, and respect for others, which never waned with rank. Many who encountered him later in life recount how accessible, gracious, and principled he remained.



Legacy of Integrity and Leadership

Dr Kolade’s life was anchored in values. He understood that leadership is more than title or position — it is about responsibility, consistency, and sacrificing self-interest for service. He believed that policies and systems mean little unless upheld by men and women of character.

His principle of treating “people as the most important resource” resonated deeply in both corporate and public spheres. He insisted that institutions perform no better than their people.

He also exemplified what it means to lead with restraint. He rarely sought the limelight, steered conversations toward collective purpose rather than personal glory, and was patient for impact in a world often impatient for recognition.

Through his teaching, governance, and writings, he shaped many youthful minds by imparting knowledge and modelling consistency, humility, and conviction in living.



What His Passing Means

The passing of Dr Christopher Kolade is a profound loss not only to his family and students but to Nigeria and Africa more widely. In times when leadership is too often measured by noise and power, his life stood as a quiet rebuke — that lasting influence is born of integrity, not theatrics.

Yet even in this moment of farewell, his legacy endures. The values he championed — respect, service, accountability — continue through the many he mentored. The institutions he served, the classrooms he taught, the boardrooms he led, all bear the imprint of his wisdom.



A Charge to the Living

As we mourn, we must also carry forward. Let us honour Dr Kolade by renewing our commitment to principled leadership. Let us nurture integrity in every sphere — corporate, public service, education, or private life. Let us regard people as God’s precious creation, serving rather than exploiting, building rather than tearing down.

Let us ensure his life does not become merely a memory, but a living catalyst for a better Nigeria — one where leadership is measured not by titles but by character, where ambition is harnessed by purpose, and where young people believe they, too, can shape a nation of dignity.



Final Words of Gratitude

Thank you, Dr Kolade, for your faithful life. Thank you for leading by example. Thank you for showing us that greatness is not in loud proclamations, but in daily obedience, consistency, humility, and concern for others.

May you rest in glory. May your legacy echo forward. And may we — your children, students, and nation — honour you in words and renewed lives.

Farewell, sir. May your journey beyond be as noble as the walk you left behind.


By Prof. Lere Baale
President & Chairman of Council
Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy.

We thank God for who he was and for the privilege of knowing him. A man who said a lot in his life time, but whose life said a lot more and who shared a lot more that touched a lot more than he could ever ever have said. May his soul rest in peace.

Thursday, October, 2025
My Tribute to CK


How does one eulogise one so special, so exceptional?

From the time that I met you during my interview in 2001, I knew that I had met with someone so extraordinary, whose presence would leave a lasting mark on my life.

You were not just outstanding as our chairman & leader; you also became my mentor as well as father figure. A man of integrity, principled and precise; working with you was a delight and every opportunity, a life lesson, a teaching moment from your wealth of knowledge and experience.

You entrenched in me the spirit of excellence, punctuality and effectiveness. You would always get to Board meetings at least 40 minutes to the start of the meeting even if you were just flying in to the country. Your board room prowess was outstanding and admirable. Oh, you were so wise and knowledgeable yet so relatable, always finding what seemed like simple solutions to very knotty issues and they worked. You were so passionate about integrity and representing Christ in business; even in your twilight years, you were still setting up a new office on the island.

People speak about excellence, you embodied it. Talking to you was a delight, listening and gleaning from your deep fountain of knowledge, wisdom and love.

Usually, when one draws closer to great men, you readily see their flaws and failings but you were so different. Your status, positions, roles and functions did not sway you or change your essence. You were intentional about what you wanted done, purposeful and result oriented, yet accommodating. You were simply special

You loved and were devoted to God Almighty, your maker.
You loved His creation, His people
You loved, promoted and served your nation, Nigeria

Oh, you mentored me!! When I lost my father, you also became like a father to me; always mindful, always caring. I learnt a lot from you; You revealed God to me in ways that I could never forget. You cared about one in a way that was only unique to you alone since could see through people!!

True value is in the lives you touched. You were one of the kindest men that I ever met and one who treated everyone, high and low with respect.

I celebrate you Sir. You were simply phenomenal. It is doubtful that one will ever encounter one like you again and so, I was honoured to have walked this earth with you. I thank you for the joy you brought into every life, your service to God, the impact you made in the private and public sector. Thank you for serving the nation so gallantly!

Good night, Sir, you left an indelible mark on all of us. We shall miss you.

Olubunmi Obagun

I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Kolade’s passing. The Christopher Kolade Foundation was my first formal job after school, and it remains one of the most defining chapters of my life. Being entrusted with the responsibility of running the Foundation’s day-to-day activities and occasionally assisting Dr. Kolade in an administrative capacity was an incredible privilege that built my confidence and shaped my early career.

Working under Dr. Kolade’s guidance and alongside Mrs. Kolade was an honour that had a lasting impact on me. The Kolades treated me not just as a staff member but as family. Their kindness, belief in my potential, and commitment to excellence helped me grow in ways I could never have imagined.

Though it has been years since I worked at the Foundation, every picture, every post, and every reminder of Dr. Kolade’s passing pierces my heart. It is a poignant reminder that someone truly great has left us.

Dr. Kolade’s wisdom, humility, integrity, graceful humour, and sense of purpose continue to inspire me. I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked closely with him, for his mentorship and kindness, and for the warmth shown by the entire Kolade family. His legacy lives on through the Foundation’s work and through the countless lives he touched.

– Lola Shopeju

A Tribute to Dr. Christopher Kolade CON [1932-2025]

Integrity Personified

A great Iroko has indeed fallen. With the passing of Dr. Christopher Kolade, our nation has lost an institution, a vast human library whose volumes were written with integrity, wisdom, and solid moral compass.

He was the custodian of ethics and corporate governance, a title he did not merely hold but lived with every fibre of his being. In the boardrooms of corporate Nigeria and the halls of public service, his voice was a steady, resonant call for principle over profit, character over convenience, and service above self. At the Lagos Business School, he was a teacher who taught not just with words, but by the impeccable example of his life.

Dr. Kolade was a bridge-builder, the connection between the East and West, a father figure, and a lighthouse guiding generations away from the rocky shores of moral compromise. His legacy is not only in the institutions he led such as the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria, Pan-Atlantic University and others, or the policies he shaped, but in the countless lives he mentored and the high standard he forced us all to see as attainable even whilst serving as the Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Though the great Iroko has fallen, the forest he nurtured, the seeds of integrity, professionalism, and faith he planted, will stand for generations to come. Dr Kolade was a life of profound impact, beautifully lived. I have lost an elderly friend.

May his gentle soul find perfect rest in the arms of the Almighty.

Requiscat in pace

- Prof Fabian Ajogwu OFR, SAN

I think anyone that had the fortune of knowing Grandpa CK will understand the following statement;
This whole event comes as a surprise.

His passing was a shocker to me because I’ve come to associate death with a certain bodily weakness that I never associated with grandpa CK. He was so full of life even as his years advanced, and I think it was because his spirit was perpetually youthful, which now I'm thinking about it, must be the mark of a person that walked closely with God.

I will always remember how he'd lean in with a knowing smile when he was about to give me some very much solicited for advice. It always felt like I was part of a secret club and I loved it.
Grandpa was a great guy. An amazing one. Full of life, humour, wisdom and wit. He lived a life that one could look at and be proud of, leaving behind a legacy of enlightenment. I'm glad I got to be impacted by him, and that he will always be a small part of my life story.

I always thought I'd have more time to see him, get closer to him, have certain conversations, and I will, just not in this plane. Until then.

¹Sir Dr. Christopher Olusola Nathaniel Kolade was more than family to me. My children called him "Grandpa CK". He was my cousin by blood and my father’s contemporary, and he became an uncle in spirit and a grandfather by love.

As Scripture reminds us, “this treasure is stored in earthen vessels” – 2 Corinthians 4:7. Sir Christopher Kolade was a specially loved son of God, fearfully and wonderfully made to display God’s love, mercy, and grace to many generations.

I will miss his wisdom, his wit, his passion for service, and his love for people. I already miss our weekly Friday calls at 11 a.m. and our bi-monthly visits. His voice was always just a phone call away.

When my family moved back to Lagos in 2019, we had the gift of spending more time together. Our relationship deepened and grew richer. His love for me was healing, redemptive, and unconditional. It remained steady even when I disappointed him. He had this gift of making everyone feel special, seen, and supported. He was firm in his guidance, consistent in his love, and unwavering in his faith in God.

His last words to me came on Sunday, October 5th, around 5 p.m. I had spent four hours with him, during which he mostly slept. As I prepared to leave, I kissed his forehead and said, “I commit you into the love of God. I love you, Uncle.”

He whispered back, “I love you too.”

The next day, Monday, October 6th, I visited again. I read him Romans 8:38-39: “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

On Wednesday, October 8th, I visited with my cousin Pastor Dayo Obaweya. With Auntie Beatrice present and Pastor Femi Obaweya on conference call, we prayed for him and anointed him with oil. At around 7.00pm, I received the call from his nephew, Dr. Dayo Aladegbaiye informing me that Sir Christopher Kolade passed away peacefully a few hours after we left.
A Legacy of Integrity

One of the greatest lessons he left behind came in a message he sent me on January 10, 2025. It summarized his life’s beliefs:

INTEGRITY – The 5-Principle Approach

As a person of integrity, I choose:

To do only what I know or believe to be right
To do it every time, being consistent even when it’s inconvenient
To stand by what I believe, even if no one else is standing with me
To be ready to pay the price if it’s the cost of doing the right thing
To have the stamina to do right always, not wavering in my determination.

Sir Christopher’s stature as a giant of faith grew even larger in my eyes after his passing when I discovered that he held onto his faith in and obedience to God until the very end. He stood courageously by his covenant against the odds and the tremendous societal pressures he faced to disavow it.

Heaven is mindful of his standing, and I am comforted knowing I will see him again when we are reunited in eternity.
Goodnight, Grandpa CK.

*Cadbury Nigeria Alumni Association (CNAA) Tribute to CK*

After his broadcasting career, Dr. Christopher Kolade joined Cadbury Nigeria PLC in 1978 as Administration Director, rising to become Deputy Managing Director and first Nigerian Managing Director/Chief Executive, and later, Chairman until 2002. It was here that the moniker, “CK”, emanated, CN-style.
His 24-year tenure can be described as a "golden era" for the company, during which he championed strong corporate governance, transparency, and accountability, and guided the company to growth and sustainability with a principled hand. These were 24 epochal years that shaped the company and the lives of many. Each person has a story.

On joining CN in 1990, as a management trainee, a program inspired by CK in prior years to groom young managers and leaders, I initially wondered about the reverence with which he was held by everyone in the company. I understood why during my first encounter with CK, at the induction program as I listened to him speak in his quintessential diction, elocution and wisdom. I felt right away that I was in the right place to start my corporate career. During that encounter, he asked that we recite the national pledge. A sign that, for him, it was not only about the job. There was a higher purpose. To serve and make a positive difference in Nigeria.

1990 coincidentally was the 25th anniversary year of Cadbury in Nigeria. A new slogan, ‘in pursuit of excellence’ was crafted for the company. Excellence was an ethos; like Aristotle said, not a one-off event, but a habit deliberately cultivated.

The bar was constantly raised. Good was not good enough. And it was not just talk, you had to walk the talk. Dot your ‘I’s and cross your ‘t’s. Premises were spick and span, punctuality was second nature (you dared not attend a meeting with CK late), and integrity was taken seriously.

Innovation and creativity were encouraged and Cadbury Nigeria led the market in many respects.
The company launched innovative products in the late 80’s and early 90’s such as Poundo Yam, Dadawa cubes, Cheff peppersoup cubes and Tomapep. It is a compliment that a product category such as poundo yam is now a branded staple food 35 years on. In processes, the Company developed and patented the first ever Cereal Conversion Plant.

CK was inspirational and the progenitor of a high-performing team. We walked with our heads high.
CK was a leader who walked the talk. A stickler for doing the right thing at the right time. He didn’t ask you to do anything he wouldn’t do. His standards were very high. Yet he was humane. A father-figure. ‘Behind his back’, he was called “Baba”😊.

On his retirement as CEO, CK gave a farewell address that defined who a Cadbury Nigeria person was: Conscientious, Confident, Caring, Careful, Character, Committed, Competent. Those were 7C’s we all strove to live to, and I dare say, most still strive to. CK epitomized the 7Cs. This inspired setting up 10 years ago, The Cadbury Nigeria Alumni Association (CNAA), a group of former staff of Cadbury Nigeria (CN) with the shared mission of the pursuit of excellence in every sphere of endeavor, individual, corporate and national, with Dr. Christopher Kolade, “CK”, as the Grand Patron. CK took his role as Grand patron seriously as he did every role. He delivered the first in the lecture series organized by the Alumni Association, titled not surprisingly, the Pursuit of Excellence, a commitment to consistent best practice.

To the end, CK was concerned about making a difference in society.

To mummy Beatrice, BK, in CN parlance, the family and all loved ones, our condolences and prayers for God’s continued comfort.

Dr. Christopher Kolade’s memory is blessed, his legacy of excellence, integrity and humanity is secure, and he will be remembered with deep admiration and gratitude for his contributions and character.

Lampe Omoyele,
President, on behalf of the CNAA.

TRIBUTE TO DR CHRISTOPHER OLUSOLA KOLADE- A GREAT MENTOR AND DOYEN OF LEADERSHIP
It was a great privilege to know and work with Dr C O Kolade in Cadbury Nigeria Plc. He was an iconic individual and personality who was well respected within and outside Nigeria for all his various accomplishments. Amongst the things I learned under his tutelage were the three pillars of leadership which included the following:
1. Self discipline (personal self control)
2. Standards (sense ofone's learned values and personal beliefs)
3. Integrity (honesty transparency and accountability without being watched or forced).
These have been handed down and adopted by my children as one of the many legacies of working in Cadbury Nigeria Plc and encountering CK Dr for which I'm eternally grateful to him as a mentor and doyen of leadership. Upon learning about the demise of CK Dr my daughter's response was as follows: "May his soul rest in peace. He lived a nice long life for sure. I know he impacted you a lot because you talk about him every few weeks. May God comfort his family, current and former colleagues and all his loved ones."
As I close I know we will miss CK Dr deeply, but we take solace in the fact that he is resting peacefully in the bosom of God Almighty his creator Amen. Adieu our beloved Dr Christopher Olusola Kolade.

Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade (December 28, 1932 – October 8, 2025)
Daddy Kolade!!! A Life of Integrity, Wisdom, and Grace
With deep sadness but profound gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade (Daddy Kolade), who went home to rest with his Creator on October 8, 2025, at the age of 92.
Dr. Kolade was more than a name; he was a presence — steady, gentle, and unwavering in principle. He lived each day as a testimony to the power of integrity, humility, and faith. To those who knew him personally, he was not just a leader or mentor; he was a father figure, a counselor, and a friend whose calm wisdom could quiet any storm.
His greatest impact was not in the offices he held, but in the lives he touched. Through his teaching and mentorship at Pan-Atlantic University and Lagos Business School, he poured himself into raising a new generation of leaders who would carry forward his ideals — of honesty, discipline, and service to humanity. He lived what he taught, always reminding us that "character is more important than achievement."
Those close to him will remember his gentle humor, his thoughtful pauses before speaking, and his ability to make even the most complex issues seem simple. His life was not loud, but it was luminous. His faith in God anchored him, his love for family sustained him, and his sense of duty propelled him to serve till the very end.
Daddy Kolade, as we mourn your passing, we celebrate a life that stood as a beacon of integrity in a world desperately in need of it. Though he has left this earthly plane, his legacy endures — in the institutions he strengthened, the students he inspired, and the hearts he touched.
May the gentle soul of Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade (Daddy Kolade) rest in perfect peace Amen.

Signed
Mrs. Ndidi Oranye (Nee Obieze)
Head, Academic Programmes Marketing and Recruitment
Pan-Atlantic University, Main Campus, Lagos

Tribute to Daddy Christopher Kolade.
Chairman Genotype Foundation

On behalf of members of Genotype Foundation, I write this. Daddy you Nutured the Foundation from the beginning and made the Foundation, a place were Lives are been saved, and Future Generation secured from making the wrong decision in respect to Genotype issues. Daddy Kolade, was more than a name; He was a light — a shining example of Integrity, Humility, and service to Humanity. His life was marked by unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and a relentless pursuit of Excellence.

In his professional life, he combined knowledge with wisdom, leading with vision and inspiring everyone around him.
Daddy was our mentor and role model at Genotype Foundation; to many of our students and younger ones, who has benefitted from the Operation know Your Genotype, Through Daddy's support, hundreds of thousands students have been screened. Daddy is a guide and a builder of dreams.

Beyond Your achievements, Daddy Kolade was a man of genuine kindness — always ready to listen, to encourage, and to lend a helping hand. He believed in people, invested in their growth, and touched lives in quiet yet powerful ways.

Though Daddy , You may no longer be with us in body, but Your legacy remains alive in our lives that you influenced, the values You upheld, and the memories You left behind. Your impact will continue to echo through generations.

Daddy Kolade, your life was a gift, your memory a treasure. You are deeply missed, but your light will never fade.
Daddy your impact on the Foundation still speak. THAT IN THE NEAR FUTURE HAVING SICKLE CELL DISORDER CHILDREN WILL BE A THING OF CHOICE NOT OUT OF IGNORANCE.

Rest on Daddy, great Soul. You have run your race with Grace and finished well.

Duchess Doris Gbemiloye.
Executive Director
Genotype Foundation.

Tribute to Late Dr. Christopher Kolade, CON

On Behalf of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Nigeria Chapter

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Nigeria Chapter joins the nation and the global community in mourning the passing of Dr. Christopher Kolade, CON, an icon of integrity, service, and leadership.

Dr. Kolade was a beacon of excellence whose life embodied the highest values of professionalism, ethical leadership, and nation-building. His commitment to education, good governance, and organizational development left an indelible mark across multiple sectors in Nigeria and beyond.

Through his exemplary career as a corporate leader, diplomat, and mentor Dr. Kolade demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose, humility, and an unwavering dedication to societal progress. His impact on leadership and management practices continues to inspire generations of professionals, including members of IFMA Nigeria, who share his passion for excellence and service to humanity.

While we deeply mourn his departure, we celebrate a life well lived one that touched countless lives, strengthened institutions, and advanced the ideals of integrity and professionalism that we, at IFMA, hold dear.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kolade family and pray that God grants them comfort, peace, and the strength to bear this great loss.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Signed,
Engr. Sheriff Daramola
President IFMA Nigeria Chapter.

Tribute to Dr. Christopher Kolade

Dr. Christopher Kolade was more than just my wife’s uncle — he was truly like a father to her, and over the years, he became one to me as well. From the very beginning, he welcomed me not just into the family, but into his life, with warmth, kindness, and open arms.

He never held back when it came to offering advice, encouragement, or support. Whether in moments of decision or difficulty, he was always there — steady, wise, and full of insight.

Dr. Kolade was a man of many parts: a brilliant administrator, an inspiring teacher, a respected boardroom presence, a faithful preacher, and above all, a man who deeply loved the truth. He lived with integrity and led with quiet strength, touching countless lives — ours included.

His example has left an imprint on our hearts. We are better for having known him, and we will miss him more than words can say.

Rest well, sir. You were deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

Grandpa was such an inspirational person who lived richly and achieved so much, both in Nigeria and around the world. I’ve always admired his quiet confidence and the incredible depth of knowledge he had in so many different areas. The way he carried himself, with grace and humility, is something I deeply respect and hope to learn from in my own life.

I was lucky enough to see Grandpa CK when I was home last year. His sincerity, light heartedness, and wisdom were truly inspiring. I'm very grateful to have spent time with him then.

My wife and I were honored to have Mr. Kolade as the chairman at our wedding. His wisdom and presence made the occasion even more special.

He was a huge blessing to humanity. May his beautiful soul rest in peace.

Pa Christopher Kolade had excellent values and beliefs. He lived his values and beliefs in all he did, said and acted.

My heartfelt condolences goes to the family. May the good lord grant you eternal rest and let his perpetual light shine upon you. May your soul rest in peace, Amen.

Dr.Christopher Kolade was always referred to as the living legend among the foremost chief executive officers of broadcast media houses in Nigeria.
He was one of the very few CEOs that initiated the establishment of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria to serve as the coordinating organ of all broad media houses in Nigeria when he was the Director General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. He helped in nurturing it until he left as the DG.
The broadcast sector will forever cherish the indelible mark of leadership by example and high integrity in position of authority and power.
May the Almighty God rest his soul.
Dr.Yemisi Bamgbose
Executive Secretary.

TRIBUTE TO A MAN OF INTEGRITY ,SERVICE, AND A ROLE MODEL - --- Dr Christopher Kolade
A great man of integrity, service who left legacy for generations unborn has gone to be with the Lord Hallelujah
Our Cadbury "CK " was a father,mentor ,encourager, and a role who impacted many of us positively in many ways
You came,you saw and conquered .
You replicated yourself in many of us who drank from the fountain of your wisdom
We can only thank you for all you did for us ,our nation, and the entire world
Our dear father, you deserve your peaceful rest after many years of labour of love
We love you, our dear Papa CK, but God loves more
May the light perpetual continue to shine upon you until the resurrection day
Adieu, our own CK, our own Baba
Esther Kofoworola Ajelabi
EKA

I was not as close to Grandpa Dr. C.K as I would have liked, but my mother was, and my siblings were too. From all I experienced first hand and the regard in which he was held, he was a great and impactful man. One who put the Lord first.

His life, although it had its ups and downs, was a testament to that lifelong walk with, dedication to and steadfastness in the Lord, and in those he loved.

He lived a blessed life, he blessed others, and is blessed now.

His warmth will surely be missed.

You were indeed an epitome of integrity and your forthrightness is unequaled !
You have left an indelible mark of what true living to oneself and humanity in the sand of time .
Adieu Dr C K.

You were great in life and greater in death, you mentored not a few and your legacy lives on. Thank you Baba CK for living a life of impact. Sleep well from all your toils. The heavens have indeed gained.

I'm deeply honoured to have known such a great man like Late Mr. Christopher Kolade. Reading through his life stories leaves me with a strong inspiration. As a CKF scholar, I'm ever grateful for the opportunities that he provided for young girls like me. I earnestly hope that we will be able to carry on his great legacy to the next generation.

My Father Is Gone But I Am Grateful

When I lost my biological father in July 2001, I knew how challenging life would be because I was still an undergraduate who has just inherited a Wife he didn’t propose to and four children he didn’t birth while himself is still somehow, a child.

I had great hopes that the future would be better. I couldn’t wait to graduate, find a job and start earning decent income so I can continue paying what today may call “Black Tax” on a higher level.

My quest landed me a job in Portharcourt which I lost due to my boss’ commitment to sacrificing my career to cover up her fraud. Despite the reality of my need for money, I advised that we don’t ply the fraudulent route but what did I know…..

Fast forward to many years later, I found myself in another job where my meeting with Dr. Kolade was clearly a setup that could have taken me off a promising career so I could take the fall but it became my escalator unto greatness.

Dr Kolade held my hands for 17years; gave me his time for 17years; gave me wisdom for 17years; gave me access for 17years; wrote the forward for my first book - Get MAD; put his money where his mouth is by investing in me and as the first investor in CHAMP even when there was no proof of concept

Many attempted to kill my potential but he shielded me and guided me.

Many sold mentorship to me with a hidden agenda but he showed me compassion with zero self interest.

Many use biblical principles as rent-seeking but he used them as a God seeker.

Many tried to discard my relevance and underrated me but he gave me unfettered access to his wisdom and resources.

10 years ago, I could have died in an accident on my way home from an altruistic overnight church engagement. To the church I served, I was just a number but he reached out to comfort & guide me with wisdom and grace.

Dr. Kolade placed me on pedestals I could only dream of. He guided me through very tough heart wrenching moments.

Thank you Daddy for accepting to be my father.

Thank you for truly mentoring me; not as a means to an end, but as a truthful, genuine, sacrificial, selfless service to the boy who had dreams but needed the wisdom of a father.

To everyone reading this, if I have added any value to you through my work and life, it is because My biological father, Mr. M.O. Salami built a foundation and My adopted father Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade consolidated that foundation of:

1. Confidence without noise, arrogance or narcissism
2. Compassion without bias, selfishness or agenda
3. Competence without complacency or mediocrity
4. Character without compromise
5. Courage without ego, cruelty or recklessness

Thank you Daddy.

I deeply appreciate you for the past 17years.

I will continue to do my best to pay it forward.

I am grateful to you and to God for making our paths cross.

Rest in Power Daddy.

Your Son,

Abiola

DR CHRISTOPHER KOLADE: Mourning a Nigerian Icon

I join millions of Nigerians and many others in mourning the loss of Dr. #ChristopherKolade, my boss during my early communication career at #CadburyNigeria Limited

Dr Kolade ('CK'as we named him) was an extraordinary and visionary CEO; a man of exceptional integrity; and a passionate and talented organist ... a skill he put to good use for decades, in the service of his church in Ikeja, Lagos.

I had the privilege of serving under CK at Cadbury in several managerial positions. First, as Publications Manager, Media Relations Manager, and later on, as Public Relations Manager.

CK was the quintisential communicator. His diction was eloquently exquisite. He had a way with words that probably only #WoleSoyinka could compete with. Long before Google, smartphones or ChatGPT, CK expected nothing but the best from his Comms team.

I remember being called into his office one morning. Across his desk was my draft of an urgent corporate media release covered in red ink. He went straight to the point. "Victor, what are you trying to say here?" I explained. Looking me straight in the eye, and without skipping a beat, he responded, "Now, go back to your office, and write it just like you've explained." I thanked him And as I reached for the door, he added, "By the way, cut out the big words. Keep It Short & Simple."

I am truly grateful for the privilege of being mentored by and serving alongside him.

Last year, I visited with CK in the company of his adopted daughter #MosunmolaUmoru and his longtime Executive Assistant #YewandeKarunwi. And what a reunion it was. As usual, CK was sharp of wit, profuse and funny with several personal reminisces.

A former DG of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation; CEO and Chairman of #CadburyNigeria; Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom; Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Pan-African University; and a thought leader of great repute, Dr Kolade remains one of the iconic greats of the Nigerian public and private sector today.

Ambassador Christopher Kolade was a national treasure and a rare and highly distinguished Nigerian.

CK, you will be greatly missed.

R.I.P eternal 🙏🏽

Everyone knows that Grandpa CK was a great man, but I don't think we mention enough just how cool he was, so my contribution will be what I think was coolest about him.
Grandpa CK was one of the few people of his generation that could actually still understand and empathise with the younger generation. Be they 10, 20 or even 70 years his junior, he was able to look at them from a lens that was non-judgemental and never oppressed others with his wisdom (even though he had every right to at his age).
Talking to him was honestly quite therapeutic. He knew the importance of encouraging people to find their own learning experiences and would share stories of his younger days to express understanding rather than to prove a point. I love how he would always ask questions as if there was something he could learn from us young'uns. I truly admire him for this, and I think that trait is what allowed him to still reach the hearts of the youth today, myself included, and leave a lasting impact.
Love you Grandpa. I hope that as I grow older I can be just as cool as you.

Not only will I miss Dr Christopher Kolade, the world will too. A rare gem of deep intellect and exceptional humility whose accomplishments are enormous.
May he be at one with his Maker 🙏🏾

For Grandpa CK: My grandpa was a very wise and playful man. He had always been a good guy and I was happy for the time that I had with him. He was always the kind of person who knew when to crack a joke and he was a great person to me and I will never forget him.

How do I begin to pay tribute to a personage I neither witnessed nor experienced his leadership?. That has been my dillema when I reflect on the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade who took his bow from Radio Nigeria in 1977, some four years before I assumed duties in the same organisation as an Administrative Officer. But providence would appear to have provided the key to unlock the riddle by the appointments and official roles in which I found myself.

Six months after joining the Corporaation,  I was appointed Assistant Secretary 1 to assist the Secretary to the Corporation in his duties, including covering meetings of the Board of the Corporation and Central Management.  Much later,  I functioned as Special Assistant to 3 Directors - General ( Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed, Chief Bankole Balogun, and Alhaji Abdurrahman Micika) and Director of Administration.  These roles provided me a vantage position in the ring side of Radio Nigeria's corporate governance.  With an unfettered access to official records in the discharge of the roles, one was fortunate to come across policy papers the implementation of which brought about the evolution and growth of several phasets of the Corporation's operations.  The breadth and depth of Dr. Kolade's contributions in this regard are simply outstanding. His writings depicted a man gifted with clarity of thought and fecundity of mind. He was a man of many parts - dramatist,  organist, writer, manager, teacher and communicator par excellence.

Early in his career with the NBC, his gifts showed forth brightly and were recognized by the then colonial head of the Corporation who sent him to represent Nigeria at the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association ( CBA) on the jury that assessed and gave awards for radio production entries from member nations. It was a measure of the value attached to his services that the CBA specially and frequently requested that he be sent to represent Nigeria. And, is his Confidential File domiciled in Cabinet IA in the Director - General's office on the 1st Floor of Radio House, Abuja not filled with the numerous commendations from the CBA and such similar professional associations?.


In chapter 6 ( Profiles in Leadership: Past Directors - General) of the publication marking the Corporation's 50th anniversary celebraations titled 'Radio Nigeria: Yesterday,  Today and Tomorrow' edited by Toni Amadi and Atilade Atoyebi,  I had recalled how he initiated a policy of greater consultations between programme makers ( producers), and engineers on matters of design of facilities and orders of equipment so that studios and other equipment served the purpose of broadcasting. He also fully understood the role of broadcasting in cultural development, dissemination and preservation. He established a Culture Department and the NBC Cultural Nights to make the Corporation more culturally active. In addition, he encouraged cultural diversity as avenues for artistic expression, just as he drew into the Corporation the friendship and services of prominent artists and artistes.  His tenure was regarded as the Golden Age of Broadcasting.  

I join the rest of the forum members to wish him a perfect repose.

Dear Uncle Kolade will be sorely missed. Will treasure my fond memories of his endearing smooth voice,chats,laughter and counsel. His absolute trust in the Lord Jusus Christ and his consistency throughout is a legacy worth emulating. Keep on resting in the Lord's bossom Uncle with your crowns. Amen

Tribute to a Man of Integrity, humility and service.

Today, I celebrate the life of a remarkable man,Dr Christopher Kolade.A man whose heart beat for justice, fairness, and above all, the empowerment of the girl child. He was a voice of hope for many who had none. His belief was simple yet profound.
With unwavering dedication, he championed the cause of the girl child’s education and welfare, ensuring that every girl including me regardless of her background, had the opportunity to dream, to learn, and to become. His actions spoke louder than words.
He was a man of integrity, a man whose principles were his compass. He led by example, inspiring others to do better, to be better, and to serve humanity with honesty and humility.
His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the hope he restored, and the change he inspired. Though he is no longer here in person, his legacy and values live on.
Rest on, great soul. Your impact will never fade.

"I'm deeply grateful for the legacy of the late Dr. Christopher Olusola Kolade, whose scholarship has made a significant impact on my life and education. As a beneficiary of his scholarship, I'm humbled by his generosity and commitment to empowering others. His philanthropy has opened doors of opportunities for me, and I'm forever grateful.


May his legacy continue to inspire and motivate others to pay it forward, and may his memory be a blessing to us all."

Ambassador Sir Dr Christopher Olusola Kolade is my father. Growing up as a young Kolade boy who lost his father very early Daddy was one of the people who was responsible for my upbringing . I looked up to him as very successful man . I remember all the times you call me privately for conversations ,asking about my wellbeing and feelings , how I am coping and also making jokes with me and during these private moments giving me valuable advices and teaching me lessons of life.All these indispensable advice shaped who I am today. Even though you left at a ripe age ,I will greatly miss you Daddy thank you for all your contributions,
you live by example.You taught us to be caring ,compassionate dedicated and Diligent .You exemplify all these qualities and even more.You were dedicated to the family, community,Nigeria and the world at large.
Daddy I will deeply miss you
Rest comfortably in the bosom of The Lord

H.E the Former Ambassador to United Kingdom Dr Christopher Olusola Kolade.The Father I got by marriage for me Daddy or Daddy Ogudu the Patriarch of the Great Kolade family of Erin -Ijesha .Daddy you are a Legend and Intelligent ,Honest man ,the world sees you from outside we see you from inside in the living room,on the dining table having those intelligent conversations. Your view of Nigeria and the world which was in-depth education .The incorruptible father, grandfather who taught us that your faith must be seen through your work not words .Daddy will remind you of your last name that is Kolade ,this quiet instruction I carry personally around sharing the same instructions with the grandchildren.I salute you in life and also in Death which is just a transition from this world.Thank you for all you gave the Kolade Family, Nigeria and the world as a whole that Integrity and Honesty matters .Our Father Daddy ,Mr integrity is gone we take solace in his legacy that we cherish and promise to carry on.Sleep on Daddy .Rest Peacefully with your Creator.Adieu

Tribute to Sir Christopher Kolade 💐

It still feels so unreal to say goodbye to such an extraordinary man. Sir Christopher Kolade wasn’t just a name to me — he was the reason I believed again in the power of kindness, excellence, and integrity. Through the CKF Scholarship, he touched lives quietly but deeply, mine included.

Even though I never got the chance to meet him in person, I always prayed and looked forward to that day. But God knows best. His impact lives on in every one of us he helped, in the values he stood for, and in the hope he gave.

Rest well, Sir. Your light still shines through the lives you’ve transformed. May your legacy continue to live on and inspire generations to come.
Forever grateful. 💔💫
— Jenny Nwigwe

This year, I was making silent plans to come appreciate CKF especially the founder for putting up such wonderful foundation and finding me worthy as a recipient of the scholarship, but God knows best. Sir, your life has been inspiring. I remember my scholarship interview and the personal statement. Every single thing I said and wrote, I really meant it. I'll be a worthwhile investment producing a high returns to the world. Thank you for conceiving CKF

I am deeply saddened by the passing of a hero, a philanthropist you indeed played a vital role in my life. Your kindness, generosity, and support changed my story.
Though you're no longer with us, your legacy lives on in me and in many others you've touched. Thank you for believing in me. May your soul rest in perfect peace.
Forever grateful.

There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone.” —D. Morgan.
I might not have met Dr Christopher Kolade physically but I'm a beneficiary of Christopher Kolade Foundation and commitment to helping and raising future leaders will forever be emulated. Your legacy would never be forgotten.
Continue to rest in he bossom of the Lord, God's General.

Late Dr Christopher Kolade is a God fearing and generous man. His generosity cuts across every tribe.
His legacies will forever be remembered.
I am a beneficiary of his scholarship foundation.

May the good Lord grant you eternal rest in His bosom, Amen.

May your soul continue to rest in the blossom of our lord Jesus. Good night Daddy till resurrection morning.