Caleb Olubolade, a former military administrator of Bayelsa State and one-time Minister of Special Duties under President Goodluck Jonathan, has passed away at the age of 70.
Okay.ng reports that Olubolade died on Sunday in the Apapa area of Lagos State after collapsing while playing lawn tennis.
In a statement signed by his children, Akinadewo and Dayo Olubolade, the family confirmed that the retired naval officer had driven himself to a tennis facility but suddenly slumped during a match.
The statement said: “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 pronounced dead at Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital in Apapa shortly after being rushed there for emergency care.
Olubolade had just celebrated his 70th birthday on November 30, 2024, and was regarded as a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s public service, with a career that spanned both military and civilian roles.
He served as the military administrator of Bayelsa State from 1997 to 1998 and was later appointed Minister of Special Duties under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
A respected statesman, Olubolade was known for his discipline, humility, and contributions to national development. He remained active in public life even after retiring from active service.
The family noted that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
