Tuggar steps down as foreign affairs minister ahead of 2027 Bauchi guber race

Yusuf Tuggar has stepped down from his role as Nigeria’s minister of foreign affairs, formally exiting the cabinet ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

The development was disclosed on Monday by a media aide to the minister, Alkasim Abdulkadir, who confirmed that Tuggar had submitted his resignation in compliance with a directive from President Bola Tinubu.

Reports had earlier indicated that Tuggar was preparing to contest the Bauchi State governorship in 2027, a move that aligns with the administration’s requirement for political appointees seeking elective office to vacate their positions.

According to Abdulkadir, the resignation letter was delivered to the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), in line with the March 31 deadline set by the presidency.

In his remarks, Tuggar expressed gratitude to Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, while also acknowledging the support of staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and members of the diplomatic community.

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The statement highlighted his tenure as one defined by a focus on people-centred diplomacy, including efforts such as humanitarian evacuations, scholarship facilitation, and expanded support systems for Nigerians living abroad.

It also pointed to initiatives aimed at strengthening diaspora engagement, notably through the creation of a structured database to enhance participation and national inclusion.

On the global stage, Tuggar’s time in office was marked by efforts to deepen Nigeria’s bilateral and multilateral ties, particularly with traditional allies and partners across the Global South.

His administration further emphasised regional cooperation and security partnerships, alongside initiatives like the Regional Partnership for Democracy.

In addition, the ministry under his leadership pursued economic diplomacy, working to position Nigeria as a more attractive destination for foreign investment, especially within the energy sector.

The resignation follows President Tinubu’s directive mandating all political appointees with electoral ambitions in 2027 to step down before the end of March 2026.