Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, has died at the age of 50, the Federal Government has announced.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his passing in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja 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 dedicated and accomplished diplomat, the ministry noted that until his death, Lele served as Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division.

“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,” the statement said.

Born in 1976 in Gamawa, Bauchi State, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano. Over the course of his career, he served in various Nigerian missions abroad, including postings in Berlin, Lomé and Riyadh.

The ministry highlighted his intellectual depth, strategic insight and unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who received the late diplomat’s remains at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, described him as “a hardworking, humble and fine officer” whose contributions would be deeply missed.

The ministry further described his death as “a monumental loss” to his family, the Foreign Service community and the nation at large.

Lele was laid to rest on Wednesday in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites. The government extended its condolences to his family, associates, and the people of Bauchi State, while offering prayers for the repose of his soul and strength for those he leaves behind.