According to sources close to the minister, Tuggar will submit his resignation letter to President Tinubu today, ending his tenure as one of the key figures in Nigeria’s diplomatic corps. His resignation paves the way for his gubernatorial campaign under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The move aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act (2026), which requires public officeholders to vacate their positions before participating in party primaries or general elections.
The directive, announced earlier in March by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, applies broadly to ministers, special advisers, senior assistants, and heads of federal agencies. It aims to ensure a level playing field and prevent the misuse of public resources for political campaigns. Tuggar is among dozens of appointees expected to resign this week to adhere to the deadline.
Political analysts note that Tuggar’s ambition reflects a growing trend of federal officials returning to state politics, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. Bauchi State, a strategic political battleground in Nigeria’s Northeast, has seen intense competition between the APC and opposition parties in recent years. Tuggar’s entry into the race could reshape the dynamics, given his national profile and experience in governance.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled party primaries for late 2026, with the general elections to follow in 2027. Observers emphasize that the resignations of high-profile appointees like Tuggar underscore the Tinubu administration’s commitment to enforcing electoral laws, though critics argue the timeline disrupts governance.
Tuggar, a former legislator and diplomat, served as foreign minister since 2023, overseeing Nigeria’s foreign policy during a period of regional instability and global economic shifts. His departure raises questions about succession plans within the ministry, with speculation that President Tinubu may appoint an interim replacement ahead of a permanent nomination.
As the deadline looms, more resignations are anticipated across federal agencies, signaling the start of a heated electoral cycle. The coming weeks will test the APC’s cohesion and its ability to manage internal contests while retaining public trust.
