On Monday evening, I attended the Service of Songs in honour of a Nigerian icon, the remarkable Ambassador (Dr) Christopher Kolade at The Wole Soyinka Centre for Cultural and Creative Arts (The National Theatre). It was a befitting celebration for a man whose life embodied excellence, humility, and grace.
The Lagos City Chorale directed by Sir Emeka Nwokedi , my organ tutor Tope Olagunju, and the gifted JULIUS NGLASS all of whom supported us just last week, were among the musicians who honoured Ambassador Kolade’s lifelong love of sacred music. ayo bankole Jr. led a wonderful ensemble, with Ugo Ucheagwu and Chioma Nchekube singing so beautifully.
Yesterday’s funeral service at St. Peter’s Church, Faji, an historic edifice tucked away in the heart of Lagos Island, was equally uplifting. It was my first visit to this church, and I was struck by the beautiful stained-glass windows and the rich sound of the pipe organ. The music was sublime, no surprise, as I learned that Ambassador (Dr.) Kolade served as Organist and Master of Music there for decades.
A consummate diplomat, he served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, our nation’s most significant mission, with distinction and honour.
Ambassador Kolade was also my distinguished lecturer during my MBA at Lagos Business School, where his lessons on governance and ethics left a lasting impression. Years later, when I was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to Greece, he shared such warm and wise words of counsel that I continue to treasure.
I only wish I had known him more closely as an organist too, where discipline, artistry, and faith so beautifully converge.
Both services were worthy of a life so well lived, in service, integrity, and harmony.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
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