Ajuri Obari Ngelale was born on November 13, 1986, in Platteville, Wisconsin, USA. Though he carries dual heritage, his Nigerian identity is deeply rooted, with his paternal lineage tracing back to the Ogoni community in Ekporo, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
His father, Chief Precious Osaro Ngelale, once served as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Water Resources. His mother, Kobo Roseline Ngelale, is German, giving him a multicultural upbringing. By age five, the family had relocated to Port Harcourt, where his early education began.
Education and Political Curiosity
Ajuri attended Government Secondary School in Port Harcourt before heading to the United States for university. At the University of Kansas, he majored in Political Science and History, blending political theory with real-world application.
While at school, his sharp intellect earned him the nickname “Google” among peers. He carried this curiosity beyond the classroom, showing early signs of a future rooted in media and public discourse.
Career Launch at AIT
In 2011, after completing his degree, Ajuri returned to Nigeria and served his mandatory NYSC at Africa Independent Television (AIT). He hosted Political Platform, a current affairs radio program, airing five times a week in Abuja.
The AIT chapter ended in 2014, but it paved the way for broader opportunities in broadcasting. From radio commentary to public affairs, Ajuri was steadily building a recognizable voice.
Rise at Channels Television
2016 marked a new beginning with Channels Television. Ajuri joined as a senior correspondent, presenter, and producer. His sharp analysis and articulate delivery stood out on programs like Africa’s Future Leaders and Sunrise Daily.
This period amplified his public visibility and refined his media skills. At the same time, he consulted for the Federal Ministry of Power, Works, and Housing between 2014 and 2016. The consulting role aligned his media background with public policy engagement.
Public Service with Buhari’s Government
His crossover into active government duty came in 2019 when he was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Muhammadu Buhari. It was more than just a media role—it involved managing narratives and presenting government policies clearly to the public.
Ajuri often defended Buhari against critics who accused the president of bias toward a specific ethnic group. He quickly became one of the more familiar voices in the administration’s communication team.
Political Campaign and Tinubu’s Rise
With the 2023 elections approaching, Ajuri transitioned into campaign politics. He was named co-principal spokesperson for Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential campaign. The position placed him at the center of Nigeria’s political messaging machinery during a critical election year.
The campaign’s success ensured continuity in his government involvement. On July 31, 2023, Ajuri was named the official Presidential Spokesman for President Tinubu, a role he held until September 7, 2024.
Media Recognition and Controversies
His media experience gained him access to major international platforms like CNN and Voice of America. However, not all appearances were without friction. During a CNN interview on March 1, 2023, Ajuri downplayed the violence that marred the presidential elections, a statement that triggered backlash across social media.
Critics pointed out discrepancies in his claims, particularly on the extent of result uploads from polling units across the country. These moments placed Ajuri in the spotlight and intensified public scrutiny of his communication role.
Beyond Media: Author and Pastor
Outside of politics and journalism, Ajuri is also a published author. His works include Buhari: From General to President and Struggle for Nigeria’s Soul, reflecting his interest in Nigeria’s evolving political dynamics.
His writing, much like his public commentary, is grounded in political history and national identity. Beyond books and articles, Ajuri has also explored spiritual leadership. As a pastor, he has delivered sermons such as Foundation in the Midst of Storms at Sureword Worship Centre in Apo, Abuja.
Other recorded messages include Parable of the Hidden Treasure, The Quiet Period, and Wise and Foolish Builder. These teachings often blend biblical metaphor with real-life challenges, showing a different facet of his personality.
Family and Public Life
While Ajuri is often in the public space for his political engagements, he has managed to keep his private life largely away from media attention. He is married to an Igbo woman, though her name and background remain under wraps.
They are parents to four children—three boys and a girl. The couple welcomed their daughter on February 10, 2023, expanding a family that Ajuri holds dear amid his public responsibilities.
Ajuri’s Background
Ajuri comes from a large family, being one of six children. His upbringing blended the Nigerian traditional values from his father’s side and a European perspective from his mother’s German roots. This blend may explain his nuanced communication style and ability to resonate with diverse audiences.
His career has not only revolved around Nigerian politics but also included spiritual teachings and writing. This diversity has allowed him to connect with both grassroots followers and elite policymakers.
High-Pressure Roles
His communication approach combines firm delivery with sharp responses, traits that helped him navigate demanding political situations. His role in moulding public opinion during the Buhari and Tinubu administrations earned him considerable influence, even if not without controversy.
His consistency in defending government policies made him a go-to figure during politically tense moments. At the same time, it opened him up to criticism, particularly when information appeared incomplete or politically skewed.
Authoring Nigeria’s Political Discourse
In addition to his books, Ajuri has written several opinion pieces and editorials focusing on national issues. His work in journalism and writing earned him a reputation within Buhari’s administration as one of the most informed voices on public affairs.
This intellectual capacity, combined with his government service and broadcasting history, adds to his multidimensional career. His voice in media, writing, and politics continues to be relevant, especially as public discourse in Nigeria becomes increasingly polarized.
Grassroots and Media
Even as he took on official government roles, Ajuri maintained his connection to grassroots communities. Whether it was through his television appearances or his church sermons, he kept engaging with the public directly.
His social media presence reflects this as well. Ajuri is active on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, using them to share both personal moments and professional updates.
Personal Integrity and Public Trust
Despite being at the center of political debates, Ajuri’s career has avoided major scandals. He is regarded by many as a disciplined figure who blends professionalism with personal conviction.
Still, the controversies during the 2023 elections left some voters questioning the balance between loyalty to the government and objectivity in public communication. As Nigeria continues to confront electoral challenges, the role of spokespersons like Ajuri remains critical in moulding national conversations.
Political Experience and Media Training
Ajuri’s background as a media professional gave him an edge in managing presidential narratives. His time at Channels TV honed his presentation skills, while his earlier years at AIT introduced him to political reporting.
This combination of journalism and public relations proved valuable in both Buhari’s and Tinubu’s administrations. It also explains why he was continuously considered for top communication roles within the government.
And Finally…
With a professional track record spanning journalism, political communication, authorship, and pastoral work, Ajuri Ngelale stands out as one of Nigeria’s multifaceted public figures. His ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while maintaining a strong public image has helped him remain relevant.
Ajuri’s journey from Port Harcourt to the presidency’s media office shows what can happen when communication skills meet political engagement.
To learn about other figures within Nigeria’s influential circles, including family members of public servants like Folorunsho Alakija’s husband, you can read about Modupe Alakija’s net worth and biography.
Article updated 3 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
