Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, has passed away at the age of 50.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nigeria disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, noting that the diplomat died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara after a protracted illness.
According to the ministry, until his death, Lele served as Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division. A career diplomat, he was recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Ambassador-designate to the Algeria, following his confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.
Born in Gamawa in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University Kano and served in Nigerian missions in Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh during his distinguished career. The ministry described him as a diplomat known for his intellectual depth, strategic insight, and dedication to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, received his remains at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, describing the late diplomat as a hardworking, humble, and exemplary officer who would be greatly missed.
The ministry noted that his passing is a monumental loss not only to his family but also to the Foreign Service community and the nation at large.
Lele was laid to rest in Kano on Wednesday in accordance with Islamic rites, while the Federal Government extended condolences to his family, associates, and the people of Bauchi State.
