The Presidency last night granted the request by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, to proceed on an “indefinite leave” to enable him attend to pressing medical matters affecting his immediate family.
Ngelale, in a statement on his general communication WhatsApp platform, said he had on Friday submitted a memo to the President’s Chief of Staff on his decision to pause his functions, including his roles as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
He said the decision was made after consultations with his family, owing to a worsening vexatious medical situation at home.
He expressed hope to return to full-time national service when circumstances permitted.
He, however, requested privacy for his family during this challenging time.
His leave of absence takes effect immediately, with no specified date for his return.
The Presidency, in a statement last night, said President Tinubu “fully understands and sympathises with the circumstances that have led to this difficult decision.”
He extended “our heartfelt prayers and best wishes to Chief Ngelale and his family during this difficult period, hoping for a speedy recovery and restoration to health.”
It said while Ngelale’s tireless efforts and dedication in serving the nation would be missed, it was grateful for the remarkable contributions he has made in his “various capacities, especially in advancing discourse and leading efforts on climate action and other key initiatives.”
The President wished him well in all his future endeavours and “looks forward to welcoming him back to national service when the time is ripe.”
He also asked that Ngelale’s wish for his privacy and that of his family be respected during “this period.”
Ngelale who assumed office as Special Adviser on 31st July, 2023 also served as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in an August 1, 2023 statement announced his appointment.
It said:” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the appointment of Chief Ajuri Ngelale as the Official Spokesperson as well as the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.
“The appointment takes effect from 31st July, 2023 and would terminate at the end of this administration unless otherwise decided by the President.
“The President urges him to bring his wealth of experience to bear on the new assignment.”
