Former Military Administrator of Bayelsa State, Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade (rtd), has passed away at the age of 70. He died on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Apapa, Lagos.
Olubolade, who celebrated his 70th birthday on November 30, 2024, was playing lawn tennis at a nearby facility when he suddenly slumped. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he was pronounced dead at Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital, Apapa
Born on November 30, 1954, in Ipoti-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Olubolade was commissioned into the Nigerian Navy in 1974. He attended prestigious military institutions, including the Britannia Royal Naval College in the UK and the Naval College of Engineering in India. He served as the Military Administrator of Bayelsa State from June 1997 to 1998, appointed by the military government of General Sani Abacha. During his tenure, he laid the foundation for the state’s administration and development, notably establishing the Bayelsa State Council for Arts & Culture.
After retiring from the Navy in 1999 at the start of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, Olubolade ventured into politics. He was involved with the Action Congress before defecting to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He held several ministerial positions under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, including Minister of Special Duties, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, and Minister of Police Affairs.
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Olubolade was widely respected for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to public service. His contributions to Bayelsa State and Nigeria at large were celebrated during his 70th birthday, attended by prominent figures such as former President Goodluck Jonathan and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri.
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Details of his burial will be announced in due course.
