- It was confirmed that Lele died in the early hours of April 19,
- Lele was laid to rest on Wednesday in Kano according to Islamic rites
- The ministry extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the government and people of Bauchi State
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the passing of Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, describing his death as a major blow to the country’s diplomatic corps.
In a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday and signed by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, Eko Hot Blog reports that it was confirmed that Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, after a long battle with illness.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Benue Mortician Arrested for Using Corpse Part as Walking Stick
- Baba Yusuf: Bandits May Reach National Assembly
- PDP Asks INEC To Withdraw Recognition Of Anyanwu As National Secretary
The ministry noted that Lele, a seasoned career diplomat who joined the Nigerian Foreign Service in 2001, served the country with dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.
It also revealed that before his death, he was serving as Director of the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He had recently been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, following confirmation by the Senate.
Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano, and previously served in Nigerian missions in Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.
The ministry praised him for his intellectual capacity, strategic thinking, and contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy direction.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Ahmed, who received his remains at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, described him as a diligent, humble, and highly respected officer whose absence would be deeply felt across the foreign service.
According to the ministry, his death represents a significant loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire diplomatic community and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Lele was laid to rest on Wednesday in Kano according to Islamic rites.
The ministry extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the government and people of Bauchi State, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and comfort for those he left behind.
FURTHER READING
