Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, has stepped down from his position, the ministry confirmed on Monday through spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa.
The resignation follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu requiring political appointees intending to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign by March 31.
The mandate is anchored in Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries.
Tuggar’s exit has intensified speculation about a potential bid for the Bauchi State governorship on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.
A veteran diplomat and policymaker, Tuggar was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in August 2023. Prior to this, he served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany from 2017 to 2023, where he played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations, boosting trade partnerships, and advancing Nigeria’s diplomatic interests in Europe.
Born on March 12, 1967, Tuggar’s career spans diplomacy, politics, energy, and strategic consulting. He represented the Gamawa Constituency in Bauchi State in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011 and has contested the state’s governorship in two previous election cycles.
During his tenure as foreign minister, Tuggar led Nigeria’s global engagements under the Tinubu administration, influencing foreign policy and international cooperation.
His resignation signals a shift from diplomatic service to active participation in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
