Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has resigned from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet to pursue his political ambition of contesting the Bauchi State governorship election in 2027.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his resignation on Monday through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, bringing an end to Tuggar’s tenure as the nation’s chief diplomat.
According to sources, Tuggar submitted his resignation letter to President Tinubu shortly after noon, formally notifying the presidency of his decision to step down. He is expected to contest the governorship under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
His resignation follows a recent presidential directive mandating all political appointees with intentions to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to vacate their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
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The directive, issued earlier in March through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, applies to ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and heads of federal agencies.
The move is in compliance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which seeks to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure a level playing field ahead of the upcoming elections.
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Tuggar’s decision makes him one of the first high-ranking cabinet members to comply with the directive, signaling the beginning of political realignments as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
Political observers say his entry into the Bauchi governorship race could reshape the political landscape in the state, particularly within the APC, as aspirants begin to position themselves ahead of the polls.
As of press time, the presidency has yet to announce a replacement for the Foreign Affairs Minister.
