By Deborah Coker
Former President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Peter Esele, on Friday joined other Nigerians to mourn, media icon and former Nigeria’s Ambassador to the UK, Dr Christopher Kolade.
Kolade, a former Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation died after a brief illness at the age of 92.
He also served as Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom between 2002 and 2007.
Esele in his tribute in Abuja on Friday, described the late media icon as a man of character.
“There are men; and then, there is the man. Dr Christopher Kolade is that man.
“In content and character, he remains the same; be it sunny or rainy. He is steady, principled, and kind.
“He laughs at himself and laughs with others. He speaks English the way it should be spoken, with clarity, grace, and purpose.
“His red blood cells carry the green and white of Nigeria, not just in biology, but in spirit,” he said.
The former TUC president also described the late former envoy as a refined, resilient, and radiant Nigeria
According to him, to sit at the same table with him is not just a privilege, it is a lesson. A lesson in humility, wisdom and quiet strength.
“As he journeys home, may the light and love of God guide his path. May his legacy continue to inspire.
“May the blessings,” he said.
NAN reports that Kolade’s family announced the passing of the boardroom guru in a statement on Thursday.
The family said the late former Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria died peacefully on Wednesday at 92.
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings,” the statement read in part.
Born on Dec. 28, 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.
Kolade began his career in broadcasting, eventually rising to the position of Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).
He later became Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he was widely recognised for his ethical leadership and corporate reforms.
Kolade taught Corporate Governance and Human Resources Management at the Lagos Business School and Leadership & Conflict Management at the School of Media & Communication, both part of Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos.
(NAN)