Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has officially resigned from his ministerial position to pursue his ambition of becoming the governor of Bauchi State in the 2027 general elections.
The development was confirmed on Monday in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
According to Ebienfa, Tuggar formally stepped down in compliance with directives from the presidency, which require all political appointees seeking elective office to vacate their positions ahead of party primaries.
Tuggar submitted his resignation letter on Monday, less than 24 hours before the March 31 deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The directive, communicated through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and follows the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 electoral cycle.
Dewan Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, emphasized that the move ensures compliance with electoral laws governing political appointees aspiring for public office.
Tuggar, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in August 2023. During his tenure, he played a key role in advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy, navigating shifting global alliances, addressing regional security concerns, and spearheading economic diplomacy initiatives aimed at attracting foreign investment.
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Observers noted that his leadership strengthened Nigeria’s bilateral and multilateral engagements across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Born on March 12, 1967, Tuggar has amassed decades of experience in diplomacy, politics, energy, and strategic consulting. Prior to his ministerial role, he held several public and private sector positions, earning recognition as a seasoned policymaker and international affairs expert.
With his resignation, Tuggar joins a growing list of political figures positioning themselves for the 2027 elections, signaling the beginning of intensified political activity ahead of party primaries and campaigns in Bauchi State.