By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja | Media Report
The Federal Government has announced the death of Ambassador-designate, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who passed away in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, following a prolonged illness. He was 49.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development on Wednesday, describing the late diplomat as a committed and exemplary officer whose passing marks a significant loss to Nigeria’s foreign service.
Until his death, Lele served as Director overseeing the Middle East and Gulf Division at the ministry. He was recently appointed Ambassador-designate to Algeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after receiving confirmation from the Senate.
Born in 1976 in Gamawa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Lele earned a degree in Economics from Bayero University Kano before joining the Nigerian Foreign Service in 2001.
Over a distinguished career spanning more than two decades, he served in various Nigerian diplomatic missions, including Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received the late diplomat’s remains at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, described him as diligent, humble, and dedicated to national service.
Lele was laid to rest on April 22 in Kano, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The ministry extended its condolences to his family, colleagues, and the government and people of Bauchi State, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
