Ajuri Ngelale steps down as Tinubu’s spokesman
Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, has announced that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence. This significant decision follows ongoing consultations with his family due to a medical situation affecting his immediate family.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Ngelale revealed that his leave was necessary to address the deteriorating health condition within his nuclear family. He acknowledged that, while the “ship of state waits for no man,” the situation at home required his full attention. He has also sent a formal memo to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, notifying the administration of his leave.
Ngelale, who has been a key figure in Tinubu’s media team, explained that in addition to pausing his duties as the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, he will also temporarily step down from his roles as the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the country and hopes to return to full-time duties when “time, healing, and fate permit.” Ngelale also requested privacy for his family during this challenging period.
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The leave of absence means that Ngelale will temporarily suspend his responsibilities as the official spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu and other significant roles tied to the administration. The duration of his absence remains uncertain.
In his statement, Ngelale remarked, “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.”
He added, “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 I during this time.”
Roles Affected:
1. *Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity*: As the main spokesperson for President Tinubu, Ngelale has been responsible for communicating the administration’s policies and initiatives.
2. *Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action*: In this role, Ngelale was involved in addressing environmental issues and representing Nigeria on climate-related matters.
3. *Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen*: Ngelale chaired this critical committee, though details of the project remain limited.
The news of his leave raises questions about how these crucial roles will be managed during his absence. However, the memo to the Chief of Staff suggests that the President’s office has been formally informed, and necessary adjustments are likely to be in the works.
Ngelale has been a vital player in President Tinubu’s media team, known for his communication skills and commitment to national service. His temporary departure from the political scene is expected to create a void, especially concerning his duties as the President’s spokesperson.
Despite this difficult decision, Ngelale remains hopeful and looks forward to returning to full-time service when circumstances permit. His statement ended on a positive note, reflecting his desire for healing and a hopeful future.
