The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the death of Ambassador Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who passed away in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, after a prolonged illness.
Until his death, Ambassador Lele served as Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry. He had recently been appointed Ambassador-Designate to Algeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.
Born in 1976 in Gamawa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, the late diplomat studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano, and joined the Nigerian Foreign Service in 2001. Over the course of his career, he served in Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in Berlin, Germany; Lomé, Togo; and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
In a release issued by the ministry Spokesperson Kimiebe Ebeinfa stated that the Ministry described him as a dedicated and exemplary officer, noted for his professionalism, intellectual depth, and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives. It said his death represents a significant loss to the Foreign Service and the country.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received the remains of the late diplomat at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, paid tribute to him as a hardworking and humble officer whose contributions will be deeply missed.
Ambassador Lele was laid to rest on April 22, 2026, in Kano State in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Ministry extended condolences to his family, associates, and the government and people of Bauchi State, while praying for the repose of his soul and strength for those he left behind.