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The Nigerian Government has announced the death of Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who passed away at the age of 50.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa. According to the ministry, Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, following a prolonged illness.
Describing him as a committed diplomat, the ministry said he served the country with dedication throughout his career.
It stated that Lele, before his death, served as Director overseeing the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The statement added that President Bola Tinubu had recently nominated him as the ambassador-designate to Algeria after his confirmation by the Senate.
“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.”
Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano, and previously served in Nigerian diplomatic missions in Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.
The ministry noted that he was widely regarded for his intellectual capacity, strategic approach, and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy goals.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received his remains at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, described him as a diligent and humble officer whose absence would be deeply felt within the foreign service.
The ministry further said his passing represents a significant loss to his family, colleagues, and Nigeria’s diplomatic corps.
Lele was laid to rest on Wednesday in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites.
The ministry extended condolences to his family, associates, and the people of Bauchi State, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
