By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has resigned from the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a significant development in the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Tuggar’s resignation, confirmed on Monday through former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad, is linked to his decision to pursue the Bauchi State governorship, in compliance with directives requiring political appointees with electoral ambitions to step down from office.
Sources indicate that the former minister is preparing to formally declare his interest in the Bauchi governorship race, a position he has previously contested.
His exit follows an earlier directive within the administration urging cabinet members seeking elective positions to resign ahead of party primaries, in line with electoral guidelines and internal party processes.
Tuggar, who was appointed foreign affairs minister in 2023, played a key role in shaping Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements, including strengthening bilateral relations and representing the country at major international forums.
Before joining the Federal Executive Council, he served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany and was a member of the House of Representatives, representing Gamawa Federal Constituency.
His resignation is seen as part of a wider wave of political realignments, as several high-profile figures begin to reposition ahead of the next election cycle.
