BREAKING: Former Bayelsa Military Administrator and Ex-Minister, Captain Caleb Olubolade, Passes Away While Playing Tennis in Lagos

 

NaijaRush has received the sad news of the passing of a prominent Nigerian figure — Captain Caleb Olubolade (rtd), a former Military Administrator of Bayelsa State and a former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to Leadership Newspaper, the retired naval officer and seasoned politician died suddenly on Sunday, May 11, 2025, after collapsing while playing lawn tennis in Apapa, Lagos. His untimely death came as a shock to many who knew him as a strong, disciplined, and active elder statesman.

Captain Caleb Olubolade was not just a military man; he also played key roles in governance. Over the course of his career, he served in several critical positions, including as the Minister of Police Affairs, Minister of Special Duties, and Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). His influence and contributions to national development, both in uniform and in civilian roles, are well noted in Nigeria’s political history.

He was born in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and had just recently celebrated his 70th birthday on November 30, 2024. Friends and family described him as being full of life and always conscious about his health and physical fitness — which makes the news of his sudden collapse even more heartbreaking.

In an official family statement signed by his first daughter, Oluwayemisi Akinadewo, and first son, Dayo Olubolade, the family shared how the tragic incident unfolded.

“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,” the statement read.

This means that the late Captain had gone out to play tennis on his own — a routine activity he was likely used to — when he suddenly slumped. Despite immediate efforts by medical personnel present at the venue to revive him, he sadly could not be saved.

After the incident, he was quickly rushed to the Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital in Apapa, which is a military hospital in the area. Unfortunately, on arrival, medical experts at the hospital confirmed that he had already passed away.

The family has asked for understanding and privacy as they deal with this painful loss, and they mentioned that funeral and burial arrangements will be announced in due course. In their words:

“Details of the burial arrangements will be announced later.”

Captain Caleb Olubolade leaves behind a legacy of service to Nigeria — both in the military and in political office. His death is a great loss not only to his family and the people of Ekiti State, but also to the entire nation.

NaijaRush sends heartfelt condolences to the Olubolade family and prays for comfort and strength for all who are mourning him at this time.

Stay tuned with NaijaRush for updates on funeral arrangements and tributes from national leaders and colleagues.