London, 9 October 2025
The Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK) has received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and founding father of CANUK.
Dr Kolade passed away peacefully in his sleep in Lagos, Nigeria, at the age of 92. A distinguished diplomat, broadcaster, academic, and corporate leader, Dr Kolade’s legacy of integrity, leadership, and service continues to inspire Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
Born in Erin-Oke, Osun State, in 1932, Dr Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary. He attended Government College, Ibadan, and later Fourah Bay College, Freetown, Sierra Leone. His illustrious career began in broadcasting, where he rose to become Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation.
Dr Kolade later served as Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria, where his ethical leadership and commitment to good governance earned him national and international recognition.
From 2002 to 2007, he served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, during which time he founded CANUK to unite, represent, and strengthen the Nigerian community across the UK.
In academia, Dr Kolade was a revered teacher and mentor. He taught Corporate Governance and Human Resource Management at the Lagos Business School and Leadership and Conflict Management at the School of Media and Communication, both part of Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos. He also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, and later as Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun State.
Deeply committed to promoting ethical standards in business and public life, Dr Kolade chaired several notable organisations, including the Integrity Organisation and The Convention on Business Integrity. He was a Fellow of the Institute of Directors, the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, the Nigerian Institute of Management, and the Institute of Personnel Management, where he served as President (1988 -1994).
A Message from His Family
“We are thankful for his incredible life of faith and service, and are grateful for God’s abundant blessings.”
Tribute from CANUK
Speaking on behalf of CANUK, the Chairman, Hon. Dr. Ily Maisanda, said: “Dr Kolade was not only a visionary diplomat but also the founding pillar of CANUK. His belief in the unity and potential of Nigerians in the diaspora laid the foundation for the vibrant organisation we have today. We mourn his passing but celebrate an extraordinary life of purpose, dignity, and service.”
CANUK extends its heartfelt condolences to the Kolade family and joins Nigerians around the world in honouring the remarkable legacy of this great statesman, teacher, and patriot.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen!
Signed:
Hon. Rose Peter Graham-Publicity Secretary, CANUK
Hon. Tekena Douglas-Assistant Publicity Secretary, CANUK