Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed deep sorrow over the untimely death of Zipporah Kela, a young diplomat and daughter of Professor S. L. Kela, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere. Her passing, he said, is not only a heartbreaking loss for her family but also a significant blow to the state and the nation at large.
Until her death, Zipporah served in the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was on a special diplomatic assignment at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. A dedicated public servant, she had previously represented Nigeria in foreign missions, serving in embassies in Banjul, The Gambia, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her commitment to her duties and the nation earned her a strong reputation among colleagues and foreign service officials alike.
In a condolence message released by the Director-General of Press Affairs at the Gombe Government House, Governor Yahaya described the late Zipporah as a bright and rising star in Nigeria’s foreign service. He noted that she carried out her responsibilities with grace, professionalism, and a clear sense of patriotism, making her a proud representative of Gombe State on the global stage.
The governor lamented that her life was cut short in its prime, at a time when her future held great promise. He emphasized that her dedication to the diplomatic mission, both at home and abroad, was a reflection of her character, intellect, and determination to make a positive impact on the world.
A native of Tanglang in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, Zipporah Kela was remembered for her humility, intellect, and strong work ethic. Her colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Presidential Villa recalled her as an exceptional diplomat who brought passion and diligence to every assignment she was given.
Governor Yahaya extended his deepest sympathies to Professor Kela, the bereaved family, and to all who worked with Zipporah. He prayed for God’s comfort to be with them during this difficult time and asked the Almighty to grant her eternal peace.
In mourning the loss of one of Gombe’s finest young ambassadors, Governor Yahaya called on the people of the state and the nation to celebrate her life, uphold the values she stood for, and draw inspiration from her legacy of service, excellence, and quiet leadership.