The Federal Government has announced the death of Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Ambassador Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who passed away at the age of 50 after a prolonged illness.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his death in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to the statement, Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, where he had been receiving treatment.
The ministry described the late diplomat as a committed and distinguished officer who served Nigeria with dedication and professionalism throughout his diplomatic career.
“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.
“Ambassador Lele, a career diplomat, was recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Ambassador-designate to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, following the Nigerian Senate’s confirmation of his nomination,” the statement read.
Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University Kano before joining the diplomatic service.
During his years in service, he served in several Nigerian foreign missions, including Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh, where he built a reputation for competence and strategic engagement in foreign relations.
The ministry said he was widely respected for his intellect and his deep understanding of international diplomacy.
“Ambassador Lele was known for his intellectual depth, strategic insight and commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives,” the statement added.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received the late diplomat’s remains at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, described his passing as a painful loss to the ministry and the country.
He said Lele was “a hardworking, humble and fine officer, who will be sorely missed by the ministry.”
The ministry further stated that his death was “a monumental loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire Foreign Service community and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Lele was laid to rest on Wednesday in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Federal Government also extended condolences to his family, professional associates, and the government and people of Bauchi State, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for those he left behind.
