Tuggar Formally Exits Tinubu Administration to Target Bauchi State Governorship

Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has resigned from his position as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The resignation, confirmed on Monday by the ministry’s spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu requiring all political appointees intending to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to step down on or before March 31.

Tuggar’s exit comes amid speculation that he plans to contest the 2027 governorship election in Bauchi State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his letter of resignation, Tuggar expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation and contribute to the implementation of the President’s 4D foreign policy strategy.

He also thanked the management and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as members of the diplomatic community, for their cooperation and support during his tenure.

Tuggar’s time in office was marked by efforts to advance people-centred diplomacy, including humanitarian evacuations, scholarship facilitation, and sustained support for Nigerians abroad. He played a key role in enhancing diaspora engagement and deepening bilateral and multilateral relations, particularly with partners in the global south.

The resignation was submitted to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation before the stipulated deadline.

Appointed minister in August 2023, Tuggar is a seasoned diplomat and politician. He previously served as a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, representing the Gamawa Constituency in Bauchi State, and as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany from 2017 to 2023.

Tuggar’s resignation is seen as a strategic step toward consolidating his political base in Bauchi State, where he is expected to leverage his experience and networks for the governorship race.

As the 2027 election cycle gathers momentum, more political appointees are expected to follow suit in the coming days.