By Abdul Lauya
Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has mourned the death of Nigerian diplomat Zipporah Kela, describing her as a rising star in the country’s foreign service.
Kela, who hailed from Tanglang in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, died while serving on a special assignment at the State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
In a statement issued by his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, Governor Yahaya said her death is a painful personal tragedy and a national loss.
He recalled her exemplary service at Nigeria’s embassies in The Gambia and Argentina, noting her professionalism and diplomatic impact on bilateral relations.
“Diplomat Zipporah died in her prime, with so much promise ahead of her,” the governor lamented, describing her as a proud ambassador of Gombe.
He extended condolences to her father, Professor S. L. Kela, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, and to her colleagues in the Foreign Ministry and the Presidency.
Governor Yahaya prayed for God’s mercy on her soul and comfort for her family during this difficult time.
Zipporah’s untimely death underscores the human cost often hidden behind Nigeria’s diplomatic assignments and public service.
