Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has resigned from the Federal Executive Council, signalling his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Bauchi State.
His resignation, submitted on Monday, comes ahead of the deadline set for political appointees seeking elective office, in line with directives issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a letter addressed to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Tuggar expressed appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the administration’s Four-D foreign policy strategy.
He also commended the management and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as members of the diplomatic community, for their support during his tenure.
During his time in office, Tuggar was credited with advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy through people-centred diplomacy. Key initiatives included the evacuation of Nigerians in distress abroad, facilitation of scholarships, and enhanced support for citizens in the diaspora.
His tenure also saw increased diaspora engagement, including efforts to develop a comprehensive database of Nigerians abroad to boost their participation in national development.
In addition, he strengthened bilateral and multilateral relations through strategic engagements with traditional allies and emerging partners, particularly within the Global South. His leadership further promoted regional security cooperation and supported initiatives such as the Regional Partnership for Democracy.
Tuggar also prioritised economic diplomacy, positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for foreign investment, especially in the energy sector, while facilitating diplomatic interventions that secured the release of detained Nigerians overseas.
The resignation letter was received on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation by Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, ahead of the March 31 deadline stipulated under the Electoral Act.
Confirmation of the development was contained in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir.
