Tuggar Steps Down as Foreign Affairs Minister to Pursue Bauchi Governorship Bid

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has resigned from his position as he prepares to contest the Bauchi State governorship in the 2027 general elections.

The development was officially confirmed on Monday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who put an end to earlier uncertainty, stating that the minister’s resignation had been formally received.

Tuggar’s decision follows a directive issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requiring all political appointees with ambitions for elective office to vacate their positions on or before March 31, 2026. The order, transmitted through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is expected to prompt multiple exits within the federal cabinet.

Having assumed office in August 2023, Tuggar succeeded Geoffrey Onyeama, who served during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. His appointment was part of efforts by the current administration to reshape Nigeria’s foreign policy using the “4Ds” framework—Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography.

Despite these ambitions, his tenure faced notable hurdles, particularly limited funding for Nigeria’s foreign missions. Tuggar had consistently highlighted the financial strain on embassies, warning that many struggled to cover essential expenses such as staff salaries and facility maintenance.

Before joining the cabinet, Tuggar served as a member of the House of Representatives for Gamawa Federal Constituency from 2007 to 2011. He also held a diplomatic role as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany between 2017 and 2023.

His resignation comes as political momentum builds ahead of the 2027 elections, with growing indications that he will formally enter the Bauchi governorship race.