By Marvellous Nyang
March 31, 2026
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has formally resigned from the Federal Executive Council in compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive mandating political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to step down by March 31.
Tuggar’s resignation signals his full entry into the race for the Bauchi State governorship, a move that had been widely anticipated within political circles but only now confirmed through his exit from office.
The directive by the President aligns with provisions of Nigeria’s Electoral Act, which requires appointed public office holders to relinquish their positions before participating in partisan primaries. The move is aimed at ensuring a level playing field and preventing the abuse of incumbency advantages.
During his tenure, Tuggar played a visible role in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements, particularly in advancing bilateral relations and representing the country at key international forums.
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His stewardship of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs saw renewed efforts at strengthening regional cooperation within West Africa and repositioning Nigeria’s voice on global issues.
Sources within government indicate that his resignation was submitted ahead of the stipulated deadline, underscoring compliance with the President’s order, even as many other ministers reportedly delayed similar decisions amid ongoing consultations and political calculations.
Tuggar is expected to return to Bauchi State to intensify grassroots consultations and consolidate support ahead of the governorship primaries, where he is likely to face stiff competition within his party.
His exit from the cabinet may also trigger adjustments within the foreign affairs ministry, as the administration moves to fill the vacancy or redistribute responsibilities in the interim.
The development marks one of the earliest high-profile resignations from the current cabinet in response to the March 30 deadline, setting the tone for what could evolve into a broader realignment within the Federal Executive Council in the coming weeks.
