Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has resigned from his position in compliance with a directive issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The resignation was confirmed on Monday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who said the move followed the president’s instruction requiring all political appointees intending to contest elective offices in the 2027 elections to step down on or before March 31.
The directive, according to the presidency, is based on Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tuggar’s exit comes amid growing speculation that he is preparing to contest the Bauchi State governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Appointed as minister in August 2023, Tuggar is widely regarded as an experienced diplomat and policymaker with a career spanning politics, energy, and strategic consulting. Born on March 12, 1967, he has played key roles in shaping Nigeria’s foreign policy and strengthening its global engagements.
He previously served as a member of the House of Representatives between 2007 and 2011, representing the Gamawa Constituency in Bauchi State, and has also contested the state’s governorship in past election cycles.
From 2017 to 2023, Tuggar was Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, where he contributed to deepening bilateral relations, boosting trade cooperation, and advancing Nigeria’s interests in Europe.
During his tenure as Foreign Affairs Minister, he led Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements under the Tinubu administration.
