Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, has died at the age of 50.
Lele reportedly passed away in Ankara, Türkiye, where he had been receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed illness.
His death was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday.
The late diplomat was recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria and had been confirmed by the Senate prior to his demise.
Before his appointment, Lele served as Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he contributed to Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements in the region.
Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, he studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano. Over the years, he built a distinguished career in Nigeria’s foreign service, serving in various diplomatic missions including Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.
The ministry described him as a committed and dedicated officer who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
His remains were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before being transported to Kano, where he was laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing it as a great loss to his family, colleagues in the diplomatic service, and the nation. It also extended condolences to his loved ones and the people of Bauchi State, praying for the repose of his soul and strength for those he left behind.
