The Federal Government has announced the death of Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who died at the age of 50.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to the ministry, Lele died in the early hours of Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, after a protracted illness.
The ministry described the late diplomat as a dedicated officer who served Nigeria with distinction.
“The late Ambassador Lele, until his death after a protracted illness, was the Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the statement said.
It added that Lele, a career diplomat, was recently appointed by President Bola Tinubu as ambassador-designate to Algeria following confirmation by the Senate.
Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University Kano and served in Nigerian Missions in Berlin, Lomé and Riyadh.
“Ambassador Lele was known for his intellectual depth, strategic insight and commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives,” the ministry added.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received the remains of the late diplomat at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, described him as “a hardworking, humble and fine officer who will be sorely missed.”
The ministry said his death is a monumental loss not only to his family but also to the Foreign Service and the country.
Lele was buried on Wednesday in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites.
It extended condolences to his family, associates, and the government and people of Bauchi State, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
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