Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olumide Olugbode, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former boss, Navy Captain Caleb Omoniyi Olubolade (Rtd), describing his death as a profound national loss and remembering him as “an extraordinary senior naval officer and visionary administrator.”
Speaking in his personal capacity as Olubolade’s former Aide-de-Camp, Rear Admiral Olugbode recalled working closely with the late captain during his tenure as Military Administrator of Bayelsa State from June 1997 to July 1998, a period that coincided with the state’s formative years.
“As his former Aide-de-Camp, I can attest that his transition represents the loss of a leader who profoundly influenced national prosperity and human capital development—not only within the Nigerian Navy, his primary constituency, but across the nation at large,” he said.
Olugbode highlighted Olubolade’s role in laying foundational structures for Bayelsa State and commended his leadership philosophy, which he said was anchored on hard work, loyalty, integrity, selfless service, and humility. He noted the late officer’s cultural sensitivity and commitment to fostering unity among the state’s diverse communities, citing the establishment of the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture in May 1998 as one of his enduring legacies.
“Captain Olubolade’s life was a shining example of vision, integrity, dedication to service, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he said, adding that his passion for preserving Ijaw heritage was matched by his inclusive governance style.
Beyond his military career, Olubolade served in various ministerial roles under the Goodluck Jonathan administration, including Minister of Special Duties, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, and Minister of Police Affairs. According to Olugbode, these appointments reflected national confidence in his capabilities and integrity across both military and democratic settings.
“As we mourn the passing of my former boss, a father, grandfather, devoted husband, and national icon, may his soul rest in perfect peace,” Olugbode said. “His legacy of service and integrity will continue to inspire and guide us all.”
Captain Olubolade died at the age of 71. Funeral events began with a Night of Praise and Testimonies on 21 July 2025 in Apapa, followed by a Candle Light Service on 2 August at Tamandu Barracks. The Service of Songs will be held on 8 August at St. John Military Protestant Church, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, with the Burial Service on 9 August at the same venue, interment at Vaults and Gardens, Ikoyi, and a reception at the Admiralty Conference Centre, Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos.