Nigeria has lost a prominent statesman and retired naval officer, Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade (rtd), who passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Apapa, Lagos.
Olubolade, who hailed from Ipoti-Ekiti in Ekiti State, had just celebrated his 70th birthday on November 30, 2024. Until his death, he remained physically active and socially engaged.
In a statement jointly signed by his first daughter, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Akinadewo, and his first son, Mr. Dayo Olubolade, the family disclosed that the former Minister slumped while engaging in a sporting activity.
“He drove himself to the facility to play lawn tennis in the evening and slumped while playing.”
“Efforts were made by medical officers around to revive him to no avail. He was immediately rushed to Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital, Apapa, where he was pronounced dead,” the statement read.
Olubolade’s career spanned military and civilian service. He was once the Military Administrator of Bayelsa State, and at different times held the positions of Minister of Special Duties, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, and Minister of Police Affairs.
His family described him as “a loving father, a disciplined officer, and a patriotic Nigerian who served his country diligently in both military and civilian capacities.”
The family added that details regarding his burial arrangements would be made public in due course.
