The funeral service had a reverent and prayerful atmosphere, including hymns and recitation of scriptures.
The service held at St. Peter's Church, Faji, Lagos Island on Tuesday was attended by family members, friends, clerics and dignitaries who gathered to bid farewell to Christopher Kolade who was buried amid heart-felt tributes and prayers.
The service, which started at about 11am, was attended by many prominent Nigerians including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labor Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
Also present were the former Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman of Channels Television, John Momoh and many other eminent personalities.
In his sermon, Dapo Asaju said the late Kolade lived a disciplined and exemplary life that was worthy of emulation.
He described the deceased as a saint by all standards, and emphasized that his life consisted of humility, discipline, integrity, and service to God and humanity.
Asaju said, “Kolade was a role model who lived by faith and moral integrity. We need more like him – men whose lives reflect godly values.”
He reminded the congregation of the fleeting nature of life, and urged them to live godly lives and be good to humanity so that they may have an external life in heaven.
Also read: Tribute to Dr. Christopher Collade, Conn (28 December 1932 – 8 October 2025)
According to him, when a person dies, he leaves behind his titles and property. What remains is the soul, which will face judgment before God,” he said.
Asaju also recalled Kolade's decades of service as choirmaster and organist at St. Peter's Church, describing him as a “pillar of faith, discipline and quiet strength.”
Using the opportunity to reflect on the state of the nation, he called for renewed patriotism and moral rebirth, urging Nigerians to emulate the late Kolade's values of integrity and service.
He said present day leaders should have the fear of God while holding public office, adding that the country has failed to fulfill its potential due to poor leadership.
He said, “Nigeria has great potential. We need integrity, good governance and the fear of God to reclaim our rightful place among nations.”
The service concluded with prayers for the repose of Kolade's soul and divine consolation for his family.
The funeral service was well attended by dignitaries and Nigerians from the public and private sector.
Kolade, former High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom, managing director and chairman of Cadbury, died on 8 October at the age of 92.
