The news of the passing of this remarkable patriot deeply moved me, yet I remain profoundly thankful for the vast influence he had across numerous fields and on countless lives.
It was an honor to engage with Dr. Christopher Kolade CON and collaborate closely with him during his tenure as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. When Dr. Kolade took office, the High Commission was in disarray. The consular and visa office, then located on Fleet Street, lacked basic amenities-no electricity, no heating, and no adequate funding. The main High Commission building on Northumberland Avenue was deteriorating, and morale among diplomats and staff was at an all-time low. Rather than functioning as a dynamic diplomatic mission, it operated more like a mere protocol office, tasked only with receiving and sending off visiting Nigerian dignitaries.
Then Dr. Kolade arrived-a one-man revolution. Early on, I found myself drawn into his circle, as he had an uncanny ability to identify those eager to serve. Within three months, we shared a private lunch at the Commonwealth Club across from the High Commission, accompanied by his wife, Aunty Beatrice. She recounted the many sleepless nights her husband endured, wrestling with the challenges he inherited. Dr. Kolade shared how President Olusegun Obasanjo had appointed him abruptly, declaring, “I’m announcing your appointment tomorrow,” leaving him to convince his wife, who had expected him to retire. Eventually, Aunty Beatrice was persuaded, and together they committed to serving Nigeria in London.
A few months into his leadership, the transformation was striking. The visa and consular services were relocated to Northumberland Avenue, Fleet Street was closed, and the entire team was revitalized. Efficiency soared, matching the highest global standards.
Before Dr. Kolade’s reforms, I was accustomed to receiving desperate calls from friends and family struggling with the notoriously difficult Nigerian High Commission processes-whether for visas or passport renewals. “Boma, do you know anyone who can help?” they’d ask, and I’d provide contacts, knowing that personal connections were often the only way to navigate the cumbersome system. Thanks to Dr. Kolade’s visionary leadership, I could confidently tell callers, “You don’t need any special contacts. Just go there-the system works now. They will assist you.” Many found this hard to believe, so I reassured them, “Try it, and if you encounter any problems, call me.” Without exception, everyone who tested the new process reported receiving courteous, efficient service without needing any insider help. Citizens were prioritized, treated with respect, and we all took pride in this newfound order.
Dr. Kolade’s impact extended beyond the High Commission’s walls; he also revitalized the Nigerian diaspora communities across the UK. Numerous town and village associations, which had previously operated independently, began engaging directly with the High Commission. He spearheaded the negotiations that led to the creation of CANUK-the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK-uniting these groups under a cohesive umbrella.
Beyond restructuring consular services and community relations, Dr. Kolade recognized the importance of promoting Nigerian commerce and strengthening trade ties between Nigeria and the UK. He ensured Nigeria’s voice was respected within the Committee of Nations, safeguarding the country’s reputation and highlighting its positive attributes. He actively facilitated connections between Nigerian entrepreneurs and UK business partners, fostering mutually beneficial trade opportunities.
What set Dr. Christopher Kolade CON apart was not just his diplomatic training but his visionary leadership, unwavering patriotism, and impeccable integrity. His dedication to excellence meant that every initiative he undertook not only succeeded but thrived. Witnessing his work firsthand was a rare privilege. Among the many lessons he imparted, one guiding principle stands out: “Standards are subject to gravity; if we do not uphold them, they will inevitably decline.”
On a personal note, Dr. Kolade was more than a leader-he was a mentor. His influence endures beyond his lifetime. When presented with a challenge, he would listen carefully, acknowledge the problem, and then challenge you with his signature question: “So, what are you going to do about it?” This was his way of empowering citizens to recognize their agency. Complaining was not enough; action was required. He would then offer support, always encouraging you to lead the effort, not to rely on him to fix things for you.
As citizens, I urge you to embrace Dr. Kolade’s challenge in every area where improvement is needed. If you are dissatisfied with the status quo, ask yourself: What steps will I take to make a difference? The power to effect change lies within each of us. This was the enduring message Dr. Kolade sought to instill, and I have taken it to heart. Have you?
Dr. Christopher Kolade, CON-an extraordinary ambassador, a devoted patriot, and a man of great character. May the Almighty welcome you into eternal peace and shower you with mercy. Rest well, Sir.
-Boma Alabi, OON SAN, Lagos, via [email protected]
