Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and the Official Presidential Spokesperson, has announced his decision to take an indefinite leave of absence from his official duties.
In a memo submitted to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Friday, Ngelale cited pressing medical concerns affecting his immediate family as the reason for this decision.
“This agonising decision was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home,” Ngelale explained.
The leave of absence will affect Ngelale’s multiple roles within the administration. In addition to his position as the Presidential Spokesperson, he will also temporarily step away from his duties as the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
Ngelale acknowledged the gravity of his responsibilities, stating, “While I fully appreciate that the ship of state waits for no man, this agonising decision was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days.”
The duration of his absence remains uncertain, as Ngelale described it as an “indefinite leave.” However, he expressed his commitment to return to his national service roles when circumstances permit.
“I look forward to returning to full-time national service when time, healing, and fate permit,” Ngelale added.