Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has formally resigned from the Federal Executive Council, signaling his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Bauchi State.
The development was confirmed on Monday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, bringing an end to Tuggar’s tenure in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to sources within government circles, Tuggar submitted his resignation letter to the President shortly after noon, aligning with his political ambition to run on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His exit from office is not unexpected, as it follows a recent directive issued by the presidency mandating all political appointees with aspirations for elective office in the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.
The directive, conveyed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, set March 31, 2026, as the deadline for compliance.
The order affects a broad category of government officials, including ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and heads of federal agencies.
Government officials say the directive is in accordance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure a level playing field ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Tuggar’s resignation marks a significant political move in Bauchi State’s evolving landscape, as he joins the growing list of high-profile figures positioning themselves for key contests in the next general elections.
His entry into the governorship race under the APC is expected to reshape political alignments in the state, setting the stage for what analysts predict will be a highly competitive contest.
Further developments are expected in the coming days as the presidency announces a replacement to steer Nigeria’s foreign policy affairs.
