ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has officially received the resignation of Ajuri Ngelale, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, following Ngelale’s decision to take an indefinite leave of absence due to pressing family health matters.
The sudden resignation comes after what Ngelale described as a “vexatious medical situation” within his family that has worsened in recent days.
In a memo addressed to the president, made available to the press on Saturday, September 7, 2024, Ngelale expressed the difficulty of stepping away from his various roles, including his position as the president’s official spokesperson and as the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action.
Ngelale noted the agonising nature of the decision but emphasised the importance of attending to his family’s needs.
“While I fully appreciate that the ship of state waits for no man, this agonizing decision — entailing a pause of my functions as the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and Official Spokesperson of the President, Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen — was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home,” Ngelale said in his resignation notice.
He went on to ask for privacy during this difficult period, stating, “I look forward to returning to full-time national service when time, healing, and fate permit. I respectfully ask for some privacy for my family and me during this time.”
The presidency swiftly issued a statement acknowledging Ngelale’s resignation and expressing full support for his decision.
President Tinubu conveyed his understanding and sympathies, extending his best wishes for a speedy resolution to the health issues affecting Ngelale’s family.
“The President accepts his reasons for the leave, fully understands them, and sympathizes with the circumstances that have led to this seemingly difficult decision,” the statement, issued Saturday, read.
“While extending his heartfelt prayers and best wishes to Ngelale and his family during this challenging moment, the President hopes for a speedy recovery and full restoration to health.”
President Tinubu also took the opportunity to commend Ngelale for his service, noting the adviser’s tireless contributions to the nation, particularly in steering national discourse and leading key climate initiatives.
Ngelale’s role as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action had been central to Nigeria’s recent efforts to address global environmental challenges.
“The President notes his tireless efforts and dedication in serving the nation and thanks him for the remarkable contributions he made in his various capacities, especially in advancing national discourse and leading efforts on climate action and other key initiatives,” the statement continued.
