Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar to Step Down for Bauchi Governorship Ambition
Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, is poised to resign from his cabinet position to launch a campaign for the Bauchi State governorship ahead of the 2027 general elections. This anticipated move aligns with a directive from President Bola Tinubu, which mandates all political appointees seeking elective offices to tender their resignations by March 31, 2026. Sources close to the development have confirmed that Tuggar's resignation is imminent, as political momentum builds for his candidacy in Bauchi.
President Tinubu's Directive on Political Appointees
President Bola Tinubu has issued a clear directive requiring all political appointees who intend to contest in the 2027 elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026. Dewan Goshit, the head of information and public relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), officially confirmed this policy in a statement released on March 24, 2026. This measure aims to ensure a level playing field and adherence to electoral laws as the country prepares for the upcoming polls.
APC National Convention and Political Ambitions
The recent 2026 national convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where most members of the party's national working committee were returned unopposed, has shifted focus to cabinet members with political aspirations. Tuggar's expected resignation follows this convention, highlighting the growing trend of ministers and other appointees preparing to declare their intentions for various elective positions across Nigeria.
Bauchi Supporters Rally Behind Tuggar
Supporters from Bauchi State, who attended the APC convention, have expressed strong confidence in Tuggar's governorship bid. They indicate that a formal declaration of his candidacy is expected soon, citing increasing political support and grassroots mobilization. One enthusiastic supporter remarked, "A formal declaration of his governorship bid is imminent," underscoring the optimism surrounding his campaign.
Tuggar's Political and Diplomatic Career
Yusuf Tuggar has a distinguished career in both politics and diplomacy:
- Served as a member of the House of Representatives for Gamawa Federal Constituency from 2007 to 2011.
- Appointed as Nigeria's Ambassador to Germany from 2017 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
- Became Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2023 under President Bola Tinubu, a role he is now set to leave.
Broader Implications and Other Ministers
With the resignation deadline approaching, political observers are closely monitoring appointees expected to comply with Tinubu's directive. Tuggar's anticipated resignation marks a significant development as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. Reports suggest that at least four ministers are positioning themselves for governorship contests, particularly in states where incumbent governors will complete their constitutionally allowed two terms in 2027. Among those named are:
- Adebayo Adelabu (Minister of Power)
- Muhammad Pate (Minister of Health and Social Welfare)
- Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Minister of State for Labour)
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the electoral timetable, setting party primaries between April 22 and May 20. By law, holders of appointed offices must resign before participating in party primaries, meaning ministers, commissioners, special advisers, and other political appointees must relinquish their positions before entering as aspirants or delegates.
